Quarterback Changes in Cleveland
Joe Flacco was caught off guard by the recent quarterback changes in Cleveland.
The 40-year-old veteran spoke to reporters after it was announced that he would be benched in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel, following a rough start to the season with a 1-3 record. He admitted, “I don’t think I’d foresee that.”
Flacco mentioned, “Whenever you’re in this league, everyone is always rated. The job of a quarterback is to help your team win.” He noted that his conversation with head coach Kevin Stefanski was brief but straightforward, expressing that they arrived at a mutual understanding regarding the decision.
In his stint, Flacco had two touchdowns and six interceptions in four games. This was his second season with the Browns, having previously led them to a playoff berth in 2023.
Now, Flacco will act as the backup to Gabriel, who was the Browns’ third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, while rookie Chedure Sanders remains in the third quarterback spot.
Flacco emphasized his goal of supporting Gabriel, saying, “I think the best way to help him is to keep working with a good mindset every day and provide that positive energy.” He noted that Gabriel is eager for the opportunity and seems dedicated during practice and meetings.
The 24-year-old Gabriel is expected to inject some life into an offense that has been averaging just 14 points per game.
Reflecting on the past few weeks, Flacco shared, “The tougher thing is, I think I’ve been going through what I’ve been through over the past four weeks.”
Flacco joined the Browns again in April after a season with the Colts, where he had thrown for 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions in eight games.
While he accepted his new role with a sense of readiness, Flacco didn’t shy away from expressing his disappointment. “I think every situation is unique, and it’s hard to draw those experiences out right now,” he remarked.
In his two preseason appearances, Gabriel completed 272 yards with one touchdown and one interception. The Browns are set to travel to London this week to take on the 2-2 Vikings, who recently suffered a close loss to the Steelers.
