Joe Flacco is back with the Cleveland Browns and ready to show he still has what it takes as he vies for the starting quarterback role during training camp.
Veteran QB Faces Competition in Cleveland
At 40 years old, Flacco stands as the NFL’s second-oldest quarterback, competing alongside three others—Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders—for Cleveland’s starting job. Given his experience and past success, many figure Flacco needs fewer practice reps to gear up for his 18th NFL season. Yet through spring workouts and early training camp, Flacco found himself watching from the sidelines while younger quarterbacks grabbed most of the snaps.
“I probably don’t need as many reps, but I do need them,” Flacco told The Athletic. “I want reps. I want to get better and show these guys I can still perform.”
Injury Opportunity Boosts Flacco’s Role
When Pickett went down with a hamstring injury on camp’s fourth day, Flacco suddenly found himself working more with the first-team offense. He’s currently sitting atop Cleveland’s depth chart. His mission? Prove to teammates and head coach Kevin Stefanski that he remains the same effective starter who signed with Cleveland in late 2023 and helped guide the team to the playoffs with a 4-1 record in five starts.
Browns’ QB Situation Complicated by Watson’s Troubles
The Browns’ quarterback puzzle gets messy when you factor in their massive investment in Deshaun Watson. They acquired him through a blockbuster 2022 trade and locked him into a $230 million contract. Watson’s Cleveland stint has been plagued by an 11-game suspension for personal conduct violations and a string of shoulder injuries, including season-ending surgery in 2023. His latest setback—a torn Achilles tendon—required a second surgery and will likely sideline him for the entire 2025 season. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has openly called the trade a “big swing and miss,” hinting the team plans to move on after this season.
Pressure Mounts on Stefanski and New Offensive Coordinator
Coming off a brutal 3-14 season, the Browns desperately need stability and better quarterback play. Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, feels the heat to turn things around quickly. With new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees taking the reins in January, handing the keys to a rookie like Gabriel or Sanders carries significant risk. Stefanski stressed a fair evaluation process: “I want to ensure we give these guys reps and learn from it.”
Flacco Embraces Leadership Role Among Young QBs
Pickett, a 2022 first-round pick who landed in Cleveland after backing up Jalen Hurts, was getting most first-team reps before his injury struck. Stefanski had planned to bump up Flacco’s workload as the season approached.
“Joe’s experience is invaluable,” Stefanski said. “He needs reps to stay sharp and work on fundamentals, but also to show what he can do. His teammates want to see that as well.”
Flacco shares that mindset, emphasizing his drive to prove himself rather than coast on reputation. “I’m willing to take fewer reps if I have to, but it’s tough not to show who I am,” he said. “I love playing football, and when there are reps to be had, I want to be out there earning them.”
Committed to Supporting Rookies
Flacco, Baltimore’s 2008 first-round pick and a Super Bowl MVP, understands Cleveland might give substantial opportunities to promising youngsters Gabriel and Sanders—both standout college performers. Despite the potential competition, Flacco remains committed to helping their NFL transition.
“I try to be a good teammate,” he said. “If I’m not the guy, I won’t be bitter toward those who earn it. The quarterback room is sacred. You have to treat each other right and help the team however you can.”
Flacco Believes in His Ability to Compete
Like fellow veteran Aaron Rodgers, who recently signed with Pittsburgh at age 41, Flacco believes he can still perform at an elite level. Stefanski has noticed Flacco’s arm strength remains sharp.
Flacco recalled his famous 70-yard touchdown pass that helped Baltimore upset Denver during their run to the 2013 Super Bowl victory, insisting he can still make those throws.
“I may not be my 29-year-old self, but I feel great,” Flacco laughed. “My arm is as strong as ever, and I can still move.”
The only thing left is getting the reps to demonstrate it.
(Photo credit: Jason Miller/Getty Images)
