The competition for the Browns’ starting quarterback position is heating up as they head into spring practice, according to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. He mentioned on “The Rich Eisen Show” that Joe Flacco, the seasoned quarterback, is in a favorable position to step in, especially with Deshaun Watson still recovering from an Achilles injury.
Breer speculated that Flacco, now 40 and in his second stint with Cleveland following a surprising playoff run last year, could take his first snap in the spring, which could hold some significance for the team.
“I think [Steelers coach] Mike Tomlin highlighted the importance of being in a leading position last year,” Breer noted, suggesting that Flacco holds that advantage right now.
Flacco, who played for the Colts last season, is competing with Kenny Pickett, the Steelers’ first-round pick from 2022, as well as rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedale Sanders for the starting role. Pickett was just traded to the Browns in March after backing up Jalen Hurts on the Eagles’ roster.
While Flacco may be poised to take the spring snap, things could shift for Pickett during training camp come summer, according to Breer.
“The guarantees for Flacco’s contract and the deal for Pickett are about equal. So, it won’t be a great loss either way if things change after spring,” he explained.
The Browns have quite a few crucial choices to make in the lead-up to the season, particularly regarding the backup quarterback scenario and final roster decisions.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported recent insights suggesting that the Browns are evaluating their roster with an eye on potential value, indicating that injuries across the league could lead to trade opportunities.
Gabriel was drafted 94th overall, and Sanders, son of NFL icon Deion Sanders, was picked in the fifth round at 144.
After a tough 3-14 season marked by quarterback instability—largely due to Watson’s season-ending injury last October—the Browns are eager for a turnaround. Watson has struggled with his Achilles, which has raised doubts about his availability.
Owner Jimmy Haslam reflected on Watson’s high-profile, $230 million contract as a disappointing outcome, remarking, “We made a big swing and mistake with Deshaun.”
Now, the hope is that one of the four quarterbacks brought in this offseason can finally provide the stability the team desperately needs.
