Although Joe Flacco was announced as the Cleveland Browns‘ starting quarterback for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season, he expressed uncertainty about holding that position throughout the entire year. Speaking with reporters, Flacco stated that the decision on who starts over the full season is not his to make.
Competition Among Browns Quarterbacks Remains Intense
This offseason saw a quarterback contest within the Browns involving Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and two rookies, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. The competition emerged as the team awaited the return of Deshaun Watson, who is recovering from a torn Achilles. Flacco, with prior Browns experience and a solid 2023 campaign, was the perceived frontrunner, evidenced by receiving the majority of first-team reps during training camp.
However, Pickett has faced a setback due to a hamstring injury, while Sanders, after an impressive preseason debut, suffered an oblique injury that sidelined him next. Similarly, Gabriel missed the preseason opener because of a hamstring issue and has not made a significant impact since returning. Meanwhile, veteran Tyler Huntley joined the team to provide depth amid injuries but is unlikely to secure a spot on the final roster.
Flacco’s Veteran Presence Offers Stability but With Potential for Change
At 40 years old, Flacco returns for a second stint with the Browns following his 2023 season, where he earned the NFL Comeback Player of the Year after leading Cleveland to a 4-1 finish and a playoff berth. His experience gives the Browns their best shot at success this season. Yet, any performance struggles could prompt the coaching staff to consider promoting one of the younger quarterbacks, making the starting role far from set in stone.
Implications for Browns’ Season and Quarterback Decisions Ahead
Flacco’s openness about the uncertainty surrounding his role highlights the Browns’ cautious approach amid quarterback injuries and competition. With multiple capable players still vying for playing time and Watson’s return timeline unclear, Cleveland’s quarterback situation remains unstable. How the Browns navigate this dynamic throughout the season could significantly affect their offensive consistency and overall performance.
“it’s not really my job to make that decision.” —Joe Flacco, Cleveland Browns Quarterback