Joe Flacco's Impact on the Browns
In an unexpected turn of events, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco stepped up for the Cleveland Browns following Deshaun Watson's injury, igniting a spark that nearly reignited their playoff hopes. Despite being eliminated from postseason contention, the Browns have found a silver lining in Flacco's performance, which has opened the door to discussions about his future with the team.
A Surprising Surge
Flacco, who joined the Browns as a backup, was thrust into the starting role and led the team to an impressive 4-1 record. His leadership on the field was undeniable, as he averaged over 30 points per game in three out of those five starts. Not only did he manage to keep the Browns competitive, but he also threw for over 300 yards in each of his last four games, setting a new team record. This feat positioned him as the second-oldest quarterback to throw for more than 300 yards in four consecutive games, trailing behind the legendary Tom Brady.
The Browns' improved play under Flacco was evident, even in the face of a playoff loss. The team rallied around his experience and poise, which brought a sense of stability and high-level performance to the offense. His tenure, albeit short, has not gone unnoticed by the organization or its fans.
Browns' Front Office Praise
General Manager Andrew Berry has been vocal about his appreciation for what Flacco brought to the table. "We'd absolutely love to have Joe back," Berry stated, highlighting the quarterback's contributions. "He played winning football for us. He did a great job of coming in and really playing at a high level that allowed us to go on a run at the end of the year." Berry also commended Flacco's influence in the locker room, describing him as an exceptional teammate.
Flacco's Affection for Cleveland
For his part, Flacco expressed a genuine affection for the city and the Browns organization. "Man, Cleveland was unbelievable. I am definitely open to being back in Cleveland," he remarked. While Flacco has enjoyed his stint with the Browns, he is taking a measured approach to his future, signaling a desire not to rush any decisions regarding his career. The uncertainty of the quarterback market has left him contemplative about his options, but his positive experience in Cleveland may weigh heavily on his decision-making process.
"I loved Cleveland, though. I loved the building, the people, everything about it ... I can't say enough good things about how that organization is being run right now," Flacco praised, reinforcing his openness to a potential return.
Financial Considerations and Future Prospects
While sentimentality plays a role, financial considerations will be a significant factor in determining whether Flacco can don the Browns' uniform next season. As the team looks to build a championship-contending roster for 2024, they must weigh the cost of retaining Flacco against other potential roster moves.
Deshaun Watson is expected to reclaim his role as the starting quarterback once he returns to full health, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation. However, Flacco's performance has undoubtedly made him a valuable asset, one that Berry and the Browns might find hard to let go.
Looking Ahead
The Browns have not made the playoffs since 2020, but with key players like Nick Chubb expected to return from injury, optimism remains high within the organization. Berry's confidence in Chubb's recovery and return in 2024 further bolsters the belief that the Browns are on the cusp of assembling a formidable squad.
As the off-season progresses, all eyes will be on the Browns' front office to see how they handle Joe Flacco's situation. His brief yet impactful tenure has presented the team with an intriguing dilemma: bring back the veteran for another season or move forward with their long-term plans centered around a healthy Deshaun Watson. Whatever the outcome, Flacco's time in Cleveland has left an indelible mark, demonstrating that even in the twilight of a career, an experienced quarterback can still light up the scoreboard and inspire a team.