Pushing the limits: Joe Flacco returns for another season

At 40 years old, Joe Flacco, the NFL’s second-oldest quarterback, is determined to prove he’s far from done. After joining the Cleveland Browns for a second stint in April, Flacco finds himself in a four-way competition for the starting quarterback position, a battle that includes third-year quarterback Kenny Pickett and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.

Flacco’s early days in training camp have been marked by limited reps, as Pickett and the rookies have taken the majority of snaps. While Flacco acknowledges that he may not need as many reps as younger players, he made it clear that he still craves the practice time.

“I do need reps. And not only do I need reps, I want reps. I like reps. I want to get better,” he said in a recent interview with The Athletic.

The Browns’ quarterback situation has been in flux for years. In 2022, the team traded multiple draft picks for Deshaun Watson, including three first-rounders. However, Watson’s tenure has been marred by off-field controversies and injuries. After a torn Achilles tendon derailed Watson’s 2024 season, it became clear that Cleveland’s expensive gamble might not pay off.

That’s where Flacco comes in. After stepping in for the Browns late in the 2023 season, Flacco helped secure a playoff berth with four wins in five starts. His performance earned him the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award, but Cleveland’s decision not to re-sign him in 2024 surprised many, including teammates like tight end David Njoku.

Now, with Flacco back in the mix, he is once again being called on to step up. With Pickett sidelined by a hamstring injury, Flacco has been getting more opportunities with the first-team offense. Flacco is focused on proving that the form he showed last season wasn’t a fluke, aiming to convince his teammates and coaches that he can still perform at a high level.

Flacco also knows that the Browns are betting on their younger quarterbacks. Gabriel and Sanders have both shown promise, but injuries have slowed their progress. Flacco, who’s been around long enough to know what it takes, is dedicated to mentoring them.

“That quarterback room is a sacred room. I think you’ve got to treat people right in that room and help them — anything to help the team,” he said.

As the Browns look ahead to the 2025 season, Flacco’s experience could be the stabilizing force they need. Whether he wins the starting role or not, Flacco is showing he still has plenty left in the tank and a lot to offer both on and off the field.