The Cleveland Browns are contemplating turning to Joe Flacco for their Week 13 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski informed reporters that Flacco is the backup quarterback for Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who is currently undergoing concussion protocol.
During Wednesday’s practice, Flacco took first-team reps, and it remains uncertain whether Thompson-Robinson will be cleared in time for Sunday’s game. Thompson-Robinson suffered a concussion in the team’s 29-12 loss to the Denver Broncos last Sunday, paving the way for a potential Browns debut for Flacco in LA.
Flacco, aged 38, hasn’t played in an NFL game since January 8, when he started for the Jets in their final game of the previous season. The former Super Bowl MVP boasts an impressive career, amassing 42,320 yards and 232 touchdowns.
Coach Stefanski praised Flacco, stating, “Big, strong arm. Obviously, he can make every throw. He’s done a very nice job in the meeting room, getting to know his teammates and getting to know the system. He’s done a nice job.”
If Flacco takes the field on Sunday, he will become the fourth quarterback to start for the Browns this season. Flacco joined the Browns’ practice squad last week after Deshaun Watson, the team’s starting quarterback, was ruled out for the rest of the season due to a shoulder fracture that led to surgery on November 21.
Having waited for more than half the season for an opportunity, Flacco seized the chance to join the Browns. Despite not playing for an extended period, Flacco remains confident in his abilities, stating, “I definitely believe I can still play. I’m a veteran guy who’s been around a lot at this point in the season with a team that’s doing well. So, I think there’s a lot of different things that I can bring to the table.”
Flacco, who played 11 seasons for the Baltimore Ravens with a brief stint in Denver before three seasons with the Jets, brings a wealth of experience to the Browns.
