The Cleveland Browns have officially named veteran quarterback Joe Flacco their starting quarterback to begin the 2023 NFL season. This decision comes as the team prepares for its upcoming games, including the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams. Flacco, entering his 18th NFL season, has a storied career and a notable history with the Browns, making this announcement significant for both the player and the franchise.
The 38-year-old Flacco re-signed with the Browns in March on a one-year, $4 million deal. His record makes him one of only three quarterbacks to post a winning record with the franchise since its return to the NFL. His experience and leadership are sure to be pivotal as the Browns believe they can finally succeed this season. In 2023, Flacco was game—he was a solid 4-1 in five regular-season starts. A perfect passer on the deep ball, he threw for over 300 yards in four straight wins before running into a brick wall—his current Houston Texans loss.
The quarterback’s path to the Hall of Fame has included many accolades. Perhaps most impressive, he was chosen Super Bowl XLVII’s MVP after guiding the Baltimore Ravens to an upset win over the San Francisco 49ers. Make no mistake, during his career he has staged one hell of a performance. In 17 seasons, he has tossed for 45,697 yards, accumulated 257 TDs to 162 INTs. Such statistics would make him one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history.
Flacco played for the Colts during the 2024 season, finishing the year with a 2-4 record while starting under center. Following his departure from Indianapolis he enjoyed a meteoric comeback. This amazing transformation was so remarkable, he won the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award. He won this honor by demonstrating that talent again after returning to the Browns. Though he didn’t even suit up for Cleveland’s first two preseason games, he was announced as the starter.
Philly flocks Flacco’s first start against his former team begins in Week 2. Expectations will be high as the Browns travel to Baltimore for the first rematch of 2019. This matchup is anticipated to hold special significance for Flacco, marking his return to Baltimore since he was traded after the 2018 season.
Leave a Reply