The Cleveland Browns made a familiar move on Friday by re-signing Joe Flacco to a one-year deal, bringing some much-needed stability and experience to their quarterback situation. Many fans are excited about Flacco’s return, and reports indicate that he turned down offers from two other teams, including the New York Giants, to come back to Cleveland. According to ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Grossi, Flacco’s decision to return was driven by the opportunity to start, as he believes he has a clear path to that role with the Browns. The veteran quarterback is seen as a more selfless player than he has been portrayed elsewhere, with confidence that he can take the starting job.
Currently, the Browns only have Kenny Pickett as the other active quarterback, as Deshaun Watson is expected to miss the 2025 season due to two torn Achilles injuries. While it’s likely the team will draft another quarterback in the upcoming draft, Flacco’s signing indicates they might not be targeting a top prospect like Shedeur Sanders.
With ten draft picks in 2025, the Browns could either select a quarterback in the later rounds or trade up into the first round to draft a player like Jaxson Dart or Jalen Milroe, giving them the added benefit of a fifth year of control.