Tag: Joe Flacco

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NFL (American Football)

Joe Flacco Named Browns’ Starting Quarterback for 2025 Season Opener Against Bengals

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (NFL)

The Cleveland Browns announced Monday that Joe Flacco will open the season as their starting quarterback. Entering his 18th NFL season, Flacco will also start in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams, which head coach Kevin Stefanski described as a dress rehearsal for Week 1. The Browns kick off their season against the Cincinnati Bengals at home.

Injuries Shape Browns’ Quarterback Battle As Flacco Emerges Steady Leader Once Again

The Browns’ training camp began with a four-way competition between Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, while Deshaun Watson remained sidelined due to Achilles rehab. However, injuries quickly derailed the contest.

Pickett suffered a hamstring injury in July, Gabriel dealt with his own hamstring issue, and Sanders missed valuable time with an oblique injury. This left Flacco with most of the first-team reps and solidified his role as QB1.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (NFL)

Flacco is returning for a second stint with the Browns after an impressive run in 2023. Signed midseason following Watson’s shoulder injury, Flacco went 4-1 as a starter, throwing for over 300 yards in four straight games and leading Cleveland to the playoffs.

His strong comeback earned him the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award. Despite a tough loss to Houston in the wild-card round, Flacco’s performance was one of the most successful stretches by a Browns quarterback since the team’s 1999 return.

Flacco’s Decorated Career And Browns Return Offer Stability Amid Uncertainty And Injuries

After spending the 2024 season with the Indianapolis Colts, where he posted a 2-4 record, Flacco rejoined Cleveland on a one-year, $4 million deal. Drafted in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens in 2008, Flacco has accumulated 45,697 passing yards, 257 touchdowns, and 162 interceptions. His career highlight remains winning Super Bowl XLVII with the Ravens, where he was named MVP.

Flacco’s return to Baltimore in Week 2 will be a significant storyline, marking his first start there since his 2018 trade. Notably, Flacco is one of just three quarterbacks to have a winning record with the Browns since their rebirth, joining Brian Hoyer and Case Keenum. With Watson’s health still uncertain and the younger quarterbacks sidelined or unproven, Flacco’s experience and steady play offer the Browns stability as they begin the 2025 season.

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NFL (American Football)

Kenny Pickett Injured at Browns Camp as Joe Flacco Leads and Rookies Get Bigger Roles

Kenny Pickett Injured at Browns Camp as Joe Flacco Leads and Rookies Get Bigger Roles
Kenny Pickett Injured at Browns Camp as Joe Flacco Leads and Rookies Get Bigger Roles

Cleveland Browns quarterback Kenny Pickett suffered a hamstring injury during the latter part of Saturday’s practice session, and head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Monday that there is no set timetable for his return.

While details about the injury’s severity remain limited, Stefanski indicated that the team is adopting a day-to-day approach. An MRI conducted after the incident confirmed the injury, and Pickett is scheduled to be reevaluated later this week. The Browns’ coaching staff and medical team are monitoring his recovery closely.

Joe Flacco Takes Lead as Rookies Rotate in Amid Ongoing Quarterback Competition

In Pickett’s absence, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco will take the majority of first-team snaps as the Browns’ quarterback competition continues into the second week of training camp. Flacco, who split first-team reps with Pickett during the first week, now finds himself in a more prominent position.

Kenny Pickett Injured at Browns Camp as Joe Flacco Leads and Rookies Get Bigger Roles
Kenny Pickett Injured at Browns Camp as Joe Flacco Leads and Rookies Get Bigger Roles

His increased role may provide stability and leadership, particularly while the coaching staff evaluates how to distribute reps among the remaining quarterbacks.

With Pickett temporarily sidelined, rookie quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are expected to see more action in training camp. Although both primarily led second and third team offenses last week, Stefanski suggested that they would be rotated more frequently moving forward. However, their roles with either the second or third team will depend on the specific goals and structure of each practice period.

Flexible Practice Strategy Aims to Maximize Rookie Development and Evaluate Quarterback Depth Effectively

Coach Stefanski emphasized the importance of flexibility in practice planning, stating that the reps given to Gabriel and Sanders would depend on the session’s objectives.

This adaptable approach allows the coaching staff to evaluate all quarterbacks in various scenarios, giving each player a chance to develop and demonstrate their potential. The team aims to optimize exposure and learning opportunities for the rookies while maintaining competitiveness across all units.

Among the quarterbacks in camp, Shedeur Sanders is the only one who has not yet taken first-team reps. A fifth-round draft pick, Sanders has shown promise, including highlight plays noted during camp. His performance may earn him more opportunities, especially with Pickett sidelined. As the Browns navigate this unexpected shift in their quarterback rotation, the coming weeks will be crucial for depth chart evaluations and long-term planning.

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NFL (American Football)

Browns Weigh Unusual Four-QB Roster Strategy Amid Cap Wiggle Room and Trade Speculation

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (NFL)

The Cleveland Browns are navigating an unusual issue at the quarterback position — not a shortage, but a surplus. Amid growing speculation that they won’t retain all four of their current quarterbacks — Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders — the team is reportedly open to keeping all four on the 53-man roster.

According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, this is a financially viable option due to the low base salaries and cap numbers attached to each quarterback. This scenario is rare in the NFL and raises questions about both roster strategy and long-term planning.

Cap Flexibility Allows Browns to Retain Four Quarterbacks Without Immediate Financial Consequences

Financially, the Browns can manage the situation with surprising ease. The combined cap hit of all four quarterbacks stands at just $7.6 million, which is only a fraction of Deshaun Watson’s $35.971 million cap figure for 2025. Watson’s cap hit is set to increase drastically in 2026, but for now, the team has budget flexibility.

This cap space gives the Browns the rare opportunity to explore the unconventional option of retaining four quarterbacks without making severe sacrifices in other areas of the roster, at least from a financial standpoint.

Kenny Pickett
Kenny Pickett (NFL)

However, the real cost may come in the form of roster depth at other positions. Carrying four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster could mean cutting a spot from key groups such as the offensive or defensive line, or the running back unit.

As the season progresses and injuries inevitably arise, that lost spot could significantly impact weekly game-day rosters. Although Cabot suggests the team might only temporarily carry four quarterbacks, even that short-term decision could disrupt team balance and player development.

Browns May Leverage QB Surplus to Create Trade Opportunities and Strategic Flexibility

There’s also speculation that the Browns might be using this narrative to build trade leverage. By presenting the idea that all four quarterbacks are sticking around, the team may hope to increase the trade value of one — likely Pickett — before camp or the regular season.

If they fail to generate trade interest, creative solutions like temporarily cutting Flacco and re-signing him to the practice squad each week might come into play. This “54-man roster trick” allows for a flexible workaround without officially burning a roster spot.

Ultimately, the Browns’ quarterback surplus reflects deeper strategic and structural challenges within the organization. The team didn’t foresee this level of depth or confusion when they made their massive financial commitment to Watson.

Now, with Watson’s health still in question, the issue is no longer whether they have a reliable backup — it’s whether they have too many to manage effectively. It’s a complication that may require input from more than just the coaching staff, including the team’s Chief Strategy Officer, whose role may now prove more vital than ceremonial.

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NFL (American Football)

Browns Quarterback Race Heats Up as Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders Vie for Starting Role

Browns Quarterback Race Heats Up as Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders Vie for Starting Role
Browns Quarterback Race Heats Up as Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders Vie for Starting Role

The Cleveland Browns currently have four primary candidates competing for the starting quarterback job: Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. According to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, any of the four can win the job, as the evaluation process is still in its early stages. Rees emphasized that the group is pushing each other to improve, and the team will be ready to go by the start of the season in September.

Quarterback Competition Narrows As Browns Balance Experience, Potential And Depth Chart Challenges

Although all four quarterbacks are in contention now, it’s unlikely all will remain in the running once training camp begins. The team will need to reduce the competition to three, with one likely being traded. There is speculation that Kenny Pickett might be the odd man out. The reasoning is that giving too many reps to the quarterback at the bottom of the depth chart could hinder the readiness of the eventual starter.

Browns Quarterback Race Heats Up as Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders Vie for Starting Role
Browns Quarterback Race Heats Up as Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders Vie for Starting Role

Joe Flacco brings valuable NFL experience and a strong connection with Browns fans, while Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders offer potential as long-term answers at the position. The Browns appear cautious about prematurely giving up on either Gabriel or Sanders, as they could develop into franchise quarterbacks. This mix of experience and youth presents the team with multiple paths to success.

Minicamp Crucial For Quarterback Evaluation Amid Uncertainty Surrounding Deshaun Watson’s Status

The Browns will hold a mandatory minicamp next week, which serves as the final opportunity to assess the quarterbacks before training camp. Rees described the plan as fluid, emphasizing the importance of giving all four quarterbacks ample reps and opportunities to showcase their skills. Creativity in practice plans will be key to ensuring each quarterback has a chance to develop and compete fairly.

A significant complication for the Browns is the uncertain status of Deshaun Watson, who remains on the roster despite the team having moved on from him. If Watson is medically cleared to play, the Browns will face a difficult decision, particularly because insurance payouts depend on his being unable to play.

As August approaches, Cleveland will not only need to finalize their starting quarterback but also prepare for a challenging Week 1 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.

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FEATURED NFL (American Football)

Joe Flacco Remains a Low-Cost Veteran Quarterback Option Amid Rodgers and Wilson Speculation

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (NFL)

As multiple NFL teams search for experienced quarterbacks, the spotlight remains on Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson. However, another Super Bowl-winning veteran, Joe Flacco, could emerge as a viable option for teams looking for a cost-effective and reliable fallback. While Rodgers and Wilson dominate headlines, Flacco remains in the background, awaiting the domino effect of quarterback moves before securing his next opportunity.

Flacco’s Experience and Leadership Keep Him in the Quarterback Market Conversation

Flacco recently visited the New York Giants and is reportedly in consideration for roles with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns, and Minnesota Vikings.

Despite being overshadowed by bigger names, his Super Bowl XLVII MVP title and past record as one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history keep him relevant in the conversation. His experience and leadership could make him an attractive choice for teams unwilling or unable to commit to the expensive contracts that Rodgers and Wilson may command.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (NFL)

Since his departure from the Baltimore Ravens in 2018—following Lamar Jackson’s rise—Flacco has played for multiple teams in a backup or stopgap role. His journey included brief stints with the Denver Broncos, New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Indianapolis Colts.

Notably, his late-season heroics with the Browns in 2023 earned him the Comeback Player of the Year award and helped push the team into the playoffs, proving that he can still contribute meaningfully when called upon.

Flacco’s Experience, Affordability, and Potential Steelers Reunion Make Him a Valuable Option

Despite being 40 years old, Flacco remains a capable quarterback, largely because his playing style has never been reliant on mobility. Unlike some aging quarterbacks whose effectiveness declines as their athleticism wanes, Flacco’s game has always been about arm strength and decision-making.

He still has a passion for the sport and intends to sign with a team for the upcoming season. Additionally, his affordability—earning just $4.5 million last year—makes him a low-risk investment compared to other available veterans.

Among the potential landing spots, the Steelers stand out as a logical fit for Flacco, particularly if they prefer a more budget-friendly alternative to Rodgers. Signing with Pittsburgh would also bring Flacco’s career full circle, as he originally attended the University of Pittsburgh before transferring to Delaware.

If he joins the Steelers, it could set up a compelling storyline where he faces his former team, the Ravens, twice in the 2025 season—this time as the quarterback of their AFC North rival.

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NFL (American Football)

Jets’ Struggles Continue as Browns Clinch Playoff Berth: Flacco Shines in Cleveland Resurgence

Flacco
Flacco (Credits: Dayton Daily News)

On Thursday night, the New York Jets suffered their 10th defeat of the season against the Cleveland Browns, who secured a playoff spot for only the second time since 2002. The Jets have faced a challenging year, losing Aaron Rodgers after just four snaps and cycling through four different quarterbacks.

During the game, the Jets accumulated 12 penalties for a total of 74 yards, solidifying their position as the most penalized team in the NFL. Despite another loss, head coach Robert Saleh appeared unfazed when a reporter commented on his demeanor, prompting Saleh to suggest throwing the podium on the floor humorously.

Flacco
Flacco

Since Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles injury in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills, the Jets have struggled offensively, while the Browns have found success following the season-ending injury to Deshaun Watson. Joe Flacco, who joined the Browns last month, boasts a 4-1 record as Cleveland’s starting quarterback. In the Thursday night game, Flacco threw for an impressive 294 yards in the first half, concluding the match with 309 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and an interception.

Reflecting on his performance, Flacco expressed gratitude for the moment, stating, “You don’t know how many of these moments you’re going to get. I’m going to remember this for the rest of my life.” Flacco, who spent the last three years of his career with the Jets and went 1-8 as a starter, has revitalized his game in Cleveland, consistently surpassing 300 passing yards in four of his five starts.

Jets linebacker C.J. Mosley acknowledged Flacco’s resurgence, commenting, “Everybody always joked, even in Baltimore, was he elite? He’s showing it.” Mosley expressed happiness for Flacco’s success despite the Jets’ desire for a win. With one game left in their schedule, the Browns remain in contention for the top spot in the AFC.

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NFL (American Football)

Browns Secure Third Playoff Spot in Over Two Decades Under Joe Flacco’s Leadership

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco

Resounding cheers of “Fla-cco, Fla-cco” echoed through the air on Thursday night as the Cleveland Browns secured their spot in the playoffs, sparking jubilation that spilled from the stands into the locker room—under the leadership of quarterback Joe Flacco, the Browns (11-5) triumphed over the New York Jets with a 37-20 victory, marking their first playoff appearance since 2020 and only their third since 1999.

“Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski expressed, “A truly special night for this organization and the fans out there,” encapsulating the significance of the achievement. The Browns, propelled by an electrifying atmosphere, seized control early against the New York Jets. Flacco showcased his prowess with three touchdown passes in the first half, including a 7-yard connection to running back Jerome Ford on the opening drive.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco

In a remarkable display, Flacco accumulated 296 passing yards in the first half, setting a career-high, as per ESPN Stats & Information research. Notably, every victory during Cleveland’s four-game winning streak has seen Flacco exceed 300 passing yards.

Flacco, who joined the Browns only six weeks ago after being unsigned during the offseason, reflected on the unique journey, stating, “This is obviously a very unique situation for me, so a lot of different emotions are going through my head.” The veteran quarterback, turning 39 next month, now leads the Browns into the postseason, making history as the first quarterback in NFL history to achieve at least 250 passing yards and multiple passing touchdowns in each of his first five games with a new franchise.

Jets linebacker C.J. Mosley acknowledged Flacco’s elite performance, saying, “He’s showing it. Not a lot of guys, especially veterans like him and his age, just coming from home, hanging with his kids, do what he’s done.” The scene on Thursday night contrasted with the past, as Browns fans filled the stadium early and stayed late to savor the moment.

Tight end David Njoku, who contributed significantly with 134 receiving yards, described the team’s resilience and determination. Despite facing adversity, including season-ending injuries to key players like Deshaun Watson and Nick Chubb, the Browns currently hold the 5 seed in the AFC playoff picture. Their aspirations extend beyond merely making the playoffs, with an eye on the AFC North division title, the No. 1 overall seed, and a first-round playoff bye.

Running back Kareem Hunt summed up the team’s mindset, stating, “It’s sweet going to the playoffs, but now we’re trying to not just make it to the playoffs—we’re trying to go the whole way.” The Browns’ journey to the postseason has become a testament to the resilience, determination, and unwavering support of their passionate fan base.

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NFL (American Football)

Flacco Embraces Browns’ Journey With Contentment Post-Jets Era

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: New York Post)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco harbors no ill feelings toward the New York Jets, the team that opted not to re-sign him after the previous season and also did not bring him back when Aaron Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in this season’s opener. Flacco and the Browns are set to face the Jets on Thursday night, presenting an opportunity to secure the team’s first postseason appearance since 2020.

Reflecting on his time with the Jets, where he spent parts of three seasons, Flacco stated, “I enjoyed my time while I was there, and it is what it is. I’m happy to be where I am, that’s for sure.” Having started the last four games for the Browns, winning three, Flacco’s impressive performance has contributed to Cleveland’s current standing at the 5th seed in the playoff picture, boasting a better than 99% chance of making the postseason according to ESPN’s Football Power Index.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: New York Post)

In the past four weeks, Flacco has outpaced all other NFL quarterbacks in passing yards with 1,307. Additionally, he has thrown 10 touchdown passes, a feat shared with Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams and Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers, marking the highest in the league during that period.

Flacco remained unsigned this season until Deshaun Watson, the starting quarterback for Cleveland, suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. Following a workout on November 17, Flacco was signed to the Browns’ practice squad just three days later.

Recalling his contributions to the Jets last season, Flacco started four games, including a remarkable 31-30 victory in Week 2 in Cleveland. In that game, he threw four touchdown passes, orchestrating a stunning comeback with two crucial throws in the final two minutes, an experience he deemed the “craziest finish” of his career. However, despite this success, Flacco did not throw another touchdown until joining the Browns this season, as the Jets opted for Zach Wilson, the 2021 No. 2 draft pick, at quarterback.

Maintaining a diplomatic stance, Flacco remarked, “There are 32 teams in the NFL. They’re just another one. I got a lot of guys over there I really respect, and I had an awesome few years in that locker room. So a lot of respect for those guys.”

In a recent development, the Browns placed rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson on injured reserve due to a hip injury, paving the way for PJ Walker, who started two games earlier this season, to assume the role of Cleveland’s backup quarterback.

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NFL (American Football)

Browns Sign Joe Flacco to a One-Year Deal with Win-Based Incentives

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: 10 TV)

On Thursday, the Cleveland Browns finalized a one-year contract with quarterback Joe Flacco, officially concluding his stint on the practice squad. As disclosed by a source familiar with the agreement to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Flacco’s contract encompasses $4.05 million in performance-based incentives.

Under the terms of the deal, Flacco stands to earn $75,000 for each of the remaining four regular-season victories this year, according to the same source. Additionally, if the Browns secure a spot in the postseason, Flacco’s incentives extend to $250,000 for a wild-card triumph, $500,000 for a divisional-round victory, $1 million for an AFC Championship Game win, and an impressive $2 million for clinching a Super Bowl triumph.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco

Presently occupying the No. 5 seed in the AFC playoff standings with an 8-5 record, the Browns have entrusted Flacco with the starting quarterback role for the past two games. Notably, he achieved the distinction of being just the fifth quarterback in NFL history to throw five touchdown passes in his initial two games with a new team, as per ESPN Stats & Information research.

Confirming Flacco’s continued role as the starting quarterback for the remainder of the season, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski expressed confidence in the veteran player. Flacco, who is the fourth quarterback to start for the Browns this season, succeeded Deshaun Watson, PJ Walker, and rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson following Watson’s season-ending shoulder injury in late November.

While Flacco’s current deal expires after this season, making him a free agent once again, the 38-year-old quarterback expressed his desire to prolong his playing career beyond this year. Despite not receiving an offer to play this season until the Browns reached out to him in late November, Flacco emphasized his gratitude for the opportunity and his commitment to staying focused on the upcoming game against the Chicago Bears this Sunday.

Reflecting on his unexpected return to the field, the former Super Bowl MVP with the Baltimore Ravens acknowledged the “unbelievable” nature of his comeback, emphasizing a mindset of staying in the present moment and remaining grateful while continually striving for improvement.

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NFL (American Football)

Cleveland Browns Declare Joe Flacco as Season-Long Starting Quarterback

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: NBC Sports)

Just one month ago, Joe Flacco questioned whether he’d have another opportunity to step onto the NFL field. Fast forward to today, and the 38-year-old is now the designated starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns for the remainder of the season.

In a triumphant Sunday performance, Flacco guided the Browns to a 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, prompting Browns coach Kevin Stefanski to affirm Flacco as the team’s starting quarterback. Stefanski expressed confidence in Flacco’s experience in high-stakes games, stating, “Joe’s been in big games. So feel comfortable with him leading the football team.”

During his second consecutive start with the Browns, Flacco showcased his prowess by completing 26 of 45 passes for 311 yards. He achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Cleveland quarterback since 1980 to throw three touchdown passes of 30 yards or more in a single game, as per ESPN Stats & Information.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: NFL)

The game’s pivotal moment occurred in the fourth quarter when facing a fourth-and-three from the Jacksonville 41-yard line, Flacco skillfully evaded a relentless Jaguars blitz. He then connected with David Bell, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to score, securing a 28-14 lead for the Browns.

Reflecting on the game-changing play, Flacco expressed his excitement, stating, “My gosh, that was exciting. One of those plays where they’re bringing pressure, and you have to kind of buy a little time, and [Bell] did a great job feeling a little soft spot and then making it happen from there.”

The Browns’ victory against the Jaguars marked a historic achievement, making them the eighth team in NFL history—and the first since the 2015 Houston Texans—to have four starting quarterbacks each win a game in a single season.

Flacco assumed the starting role last weekend against the Los Angeles Rams after rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson suffered a concussion in the previous week’s loss to the Denver Broncos. Despite Thompson-Robinson’s return from concussion protocol and practice on Friday, Stefanski waited until pregame warmups to announce Flacco as the starting quarterback against the Jaguars.

Following Flacco’s exceptional performance, including being only the fifth NFL quarterback since the 1970 merger to throw five touchdowns in his first two games with a new team, Stefanski declared Flacco the permanent starter for the rest of the season.

Flacco, who joined the Browns on Nov. 20 after Deshaun Watson’s season-ending right shoulder injury, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. The Super Bowl MVP from the 2012 season with the Baltimore Ravens acknowledged that the lack of contract offers during the offseason had led him to doubt whether he would play again.

The Browns’ victory propelled them to an 8-5 record, securing the 5 seed in the AFC wildcard picture. While still trailing the Ravens by two games in the AFC North division race, the Browns remain in contention. Their last playoff appearance was in 2020, and Flacco’s impactful performances are a notable contributor to their current position.

Looking ahead, Flacco is optimistic about the team’s offensive potential, stating, “Our offense—we have the ability to really start to get over the hump. We’re not quite there yet, but we’re going to work hard, and we’re going to continue to get better.”

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NFL (American Football)

Joe Flacco Poised for Potential Browns Debut in Week 13 Clash Against the Los Angeles Rams Amidst Quarterback Shuffle

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: Newsday)

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.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: Turf Show Times)

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.

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NFL (American Football)

Cleveland Browns Sign Veteran Quarterback Joe Flacco, Eyeing Active Roster Promotion: A Strategic Move Amidst Deshaun Watson’s Season-Ending Injury

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: The Killeen Daily Herald)

Joe Flacco, an experienced quarterback, was added to the practice squad by the Cleveland Browns on Monday, an important move that was predicted by insiders like Field Yates and ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Flacco may soon be added to the active roster, according to rumors.

This calculated action was taken in response to the Browns’ Friday session, which was intended to address Deshaun Watson’s absence. Watson will miss the rest of the season due to a shoulder injury. Notably, before finishing the deal, the team did not look into other quarterback alternatives; instead, it concentrated solely on acquiring Flacco.

In the Browns’ 13-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson seized over. Thompson-Robinson was in command of a vital drive that ended in the game-winning field goal in the final seconds despite attempting 24 passes on 43 attempts for 165 yards and one interception. Another player on the Browns’ roster is quarterback PJ Walker.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Credits: X)

Joe Flacco brings a wealth of experience to Cleveland, with a career total of 42,320 passing yards and 232 touchdowns. Interestingly, when playing for the Baltimore Ravens in 2013, he was named Super Bowl MVP.

The 38-year-old Flacco last started a game for the New York Jets in the 2022 season. In Week 2 versus Cleveland, he showed off his ability by leading a stunning fourth-quarter comeback, tossing four touchdown passes, including the game-winning pass to Garrett Wilson with only 22 seconds remaining.

The Browns, who now have a 7-3 record, are preparing for a difficult trip game against the Denver Broncos the next weekend. Joe Flacco’s acquisition gives their quarterback group the depth and experience they need to win the rest of the season.