Cincinnati Bengals: Top Five Quarterbacks in Franchise History

Aug 24, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) calls a play against the Cincinnati Bengals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Carson Palmer

Carson Palmer has been known as the traitor and the one who left the Bengals kicking and screaming. He wanted to get paid and refused to live out his contract in Cincinnati; he even considered retiring over continuing to don the stripes. The Bengals traded him to Oakland to join current Bengals offensive coordinator Hue Jackson who was Oakland’s head coach in 2011. Despite this tumultuous conclusion to his days in the Queen City, Palmer’s numbers speak for themselves.

In 2005, Palmer had his best season with the Bengals. He led them to a 11-5 record and their first playoff appearance in 15 years. It all ended though in the first offensive series as Palmer suffered an ACL tear and was out for the remainder of the game. It was the most heartbreaking moment for Bengals fans as they ended up losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers.

Palmer finished his Cincinnati career with two playoff appearances, the team’s best completion percentage (62.9%), the third most touchdowns (154) and third most completion yards (22,694). Despite these impressive numbers, his time in Cincinnati was overshadowed by his sudden departure.

Next: 2. Boomer