Joe Flacco openly criticized the growing TikTok dance culture among NFL players when asked about Cleveland Browns teammate Shedeur Sanders’ recent challenge to showcase dance moves during minicamp. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday after the minicamp session, Flacco expressed his disapproval of the trend, urging players to behave more maturely instead.
Flacco stated plainly,
“No TikTok dances. The fact that people want to get on their phones and show people. That’s embarrassing! You’re an adult. Be an adult. I can’t wrap my head around that.”
His remarks highlighted a clear divide between his traditional perspective and new social media-driven behaviors within the league.
Flacco’s Perspective on Social Media and Its Impact
Beyond the dance issue, Flacco commented on how social media platforms, such as X, have become primary sources for NFL news but also complicate the distinction between verified facts and opinions. He mentioned that Instagram remains the only social platform he personally engages with, favoring more controlled content and interaction.
Entering his 18th NFL season, Flacco brings years of professional experience with him. He joined the Browns late in 2023 after stints with the Indianapolis Colts, where he completed over 65% of his passes for 1,761 yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in eight games last year. His veteran presence is seen as a stabilizing factor in a Browns team with considerable quarterback turnover.
The Dynamic Within the Browns’ Quarterback Group
The Browns’ quarterback room includes Joe Flacco, 40, alongside younger players like Shedeur Sanders, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel. Sanders, 23, was a fifth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, a surprising drop from earlier first-round projections. Despite the wide age gap of 17 years, the group reportedly communicates well, with Sanders praising Flacco’s advice on reading defensive coverages and route progressions.
Quarterback meetings have evolved into more than simple strategy sessions, with Flacco recalling one that extended late into informal storytelling and camaraderie. Head coach Kevin Stefanski described the quarterback group’s interaction as highly advanced and beneficial for overall team chemistry, even as Deshaun Watson remains sidelined due to injury.
Role Distribution and Team Outlook for 2025 Season
During minicamp, Kenny Pickett received the majority of first-team reps, benefiting from his recent Super Bowl experience as a backup with Philadelphia. Dillon Gabriel participated in red zone drills alongside starters, while Shedeur Sanders did not yet work with the first-string offense. Flacco took limited snaps, a planned approach by the coaching staff.
The Browns are expected to roster no more than three quarterbacks for the upcoming season, with Flacco currently regarded as the likely starter despite ongoing competition. His veteran leadership is seen as a key factor as the team aims to build on recent playoff appearances.