Browns name Flacco starting QB

Joe Flacco is the Browns’ QB1 for Week 1 against the Bengals, ending a four-man race and signaling a vote for experience.

Browns Name Joe Flacco Starting Quarterback

Cleveland has named Joe Flacco the starting quarterback for Week 1 against the Bengals, ending a four-man competition that included Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. Flacco, 40, will make his first Week 1 start since 2022 with the Jets. His familiarity with Kevin Stefanski's system gives the Browns stability as they open the season.

In 2024 Flacco played eight games with six starts for the Colts, completing 65.3 percent of passes for 1,761 yards, 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His late 2023 stretch helped Cleveland reach the postseason, and his 17-season career includes time with the Ravens, Broncos, Jets, Browns and Colts, with a 105-86 starting record.

Choosing Flacco signals a preference for reliability over upside in the opening weeks. His experience under Stefanski is a comfort for a team still shaping its offense and identity. The move also sends a message that the Browns value game management and steadiness when the roster is young.

Yet age and durability loom as risks. Cleveland will need real depth behind Flacco and a plan if injuries or slumps disrupt the flow. The coming weeks will show whether a veteran approach can translate into steady production and a run toward the postseason.

Highlights

The season will test whether veteran steadiness can translate into a winning formula.