During the 2023 regular season, the Browns faced a series of injuries to their quarterbacks. The top three quarterbacks on their depth chart were sidelined, forcing the team to make a crucial decision. Joe Flacco, a seasoned veteran who had played for the Jets the previous season, found himself without a team at the start of 2023. Despite being overlooked by other teams, Flacco was given an opportunity by the desperate Browns. The 39-year-old seized this chance and extended his career by at least another season. While Cleveland hopes to retain Flacco in the upcoming offseason, there will undoubtedly be other teams vying for his services. Will the Browns be able to re-sign this former Super Bowl Champion?
Joe Flacco expressed his desire to continue playing in the NFL next season, stating, “I want there to be more, so we’ll see.” The question remains, which team will take a chance on him? pic.twitter.com/cCpYt8jYTq — Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 9, 2024
At this stage of his career, Joe Flacco yearns to be on the football field rather than warming the bench, buried in a depth chart, waiting for an opportunity. With limited time remaining, the 39-year-old understands that retirement looms on the horizon. Had it not been for the Browns reaching out, Flacco may have hung up his cleats this offseason. The match between Flacco and Cleveland proved to be a perfect fit, as he led the team to a 4-1 record in five games as their starting quarterback. Although the Browns secured a playoff spot, they fell short against the Texans in the wildcard round.
The Browns heavily relied on Joe Flacco, who delivered exceptional performances towards the end of the season. In his five starts, he averaged an impressive 323.2 passing yards per game. Furthermore, Flacco accumulated 1,616 passing yards and threw 13 touchdowns. These remarkable statistics earned the 39-year-old the title of Comeback Player of the Year in 2023. Flacco’s journey from the couch to this prestigious accolade serves as a reminder that opportunities can arise unexpectedly.
Presumably, Deshaun Watson will assume the role of the starting quarterback for the Browns in the upcoming season. The team has made a significant investment in this Pro Bowl quarterback. If Flacco were to re-sign with Cleveland, he would likely serve as a backup at best. Flacco undoubtedly seeks a team where he can have a genuine chance to start in 2024. Speculation has arisen regarding a potential move to a division rival like the Steelers, where he could compete with Kenny Pickett. However, it is too early to determine Flacco’s plans. He will use the offseason to meet with teams and determine the best path forward for his career.
According to the Source sportslens.com