A Season of Surprises and Challenges
When the Cleveland Browns lost their star quarterback Deshaun Watson to injury, few could have predicted the impact Joe Flacco would have on the team. The veteran quarterback, stepping in during a critical time, led the Browns to an impressive 4-1 record as a starter. Despite the team's elimination from the playoffs, Flacco's performance has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season.
Flacco's Remarkable Contribution
Joe Flacco's tenure with the Browns may have been short, but it was certainly historic. Averaging over 30 points per game in three out of his five starts, he brought a spark to the offense that had been missing. His arm strength and veteran leadership were on full display as he threw for over 300 yards in each of his last four games, setting a new team record. This feat placed him as the second-oldest quarterback to achieve such a mark in four consecutive games, trailing behind the legendary Tom Brady.
The team's improved play under Flacco was evident, even in a playoff loss. His ability to elevate the Browns' game has not gone unnoticed by the management, with General Manager Andrew Berry expressing high praise for the quarterback's contributions both on the field and within the locker room.
Berry's Vote of Confidence
Andrew Berry did not mince words when discussing Joe Flacco's future with the team. "We'd absolutely love to have Joe back," Berry stated, acknowledging the significant role Flacco played in the team's late-season success. "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 added, emphasizing the quarterback's influence on the team's performance.
Further commending Flacco's professionalism and camaraderie, Berry remarked, "Really pleased with what Joe did on the field, pleased with who he was as a teammate."
Flacco's Affection for Cleveland
Joe Flacco echoed Berry's sentiments, reflecting positively on his experience in Cleveland. "Man, Cleveland was unbelievable. I am definitely open to being back in Cleveland," Flacco said, hinting at his willingness to continue his journey with the Browns. His appreciation for the organization was clear: "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," he praised.
Despite this, Flacco remains cautious about his next move, understanding the unpredictable nature of the NFL market. "I don't want to rush any decisions," he stated, considering the uncertainty that lies ahead. "I didn't know what the market for QBs was going to look like last spring, and I don't know what it's going to look like this spring. So I don't know if I'm going to have options, or if I'm going to have zero options," Flacco elaborated, highlighting the volatility of free agency.
The Financial Equation
While the desire to retain Flacco appears mutual between player and organization, financial considerations will play a pivotal role in determining whether he returns to the Browns next season. With Deshaun Watson expected to reclaim his role as the starting quarterback and salary cap implications always a factor, the Browns will have to navigate these realities carefully.
Looking Ahead
As the Browns aim to construct a championship-contending roster for 2024, they are also optimistic about the return of another key player, Nick Chubb, who suffered a season-ending injury. Berry's optimism about Chubb's recovery adds to the hope that the Browns can rebound from a playoff absence that has persisted since 2020.
The Browns' off-season moves will be closely watched as they seek to build upon the foundations laid by Flacco's unexpected resurgence. Whether or not Flacco returns to Cleveland, his legacy with the Browns will be remembered for his remarkable contribution in a time of need and the professionalism he brought to the team. As the Browns and Flacco ponder the future, one thing is certain: the NFL off-season will be as intriguing as ever.