After a grueling quarterback competition in Cleveland, veteran Joe Flacco has emerged as the Browns’ starting quarterback for Week 1, ahead of much-talked about rookie Shedeur Sanders.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski and the organization confirmed the decision on Monday, ending the suspense in what was one of the most crowded QB rooms in the league.
Flacco, now 40, navigated the quarterback derby that featured Shedeur Sanders, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Tyler Huntley.
Although he did not play in any preseason game, Flacco consistently took the first-team reps throughout training camp and joint practices – especially shining in drills against starters and opposing defenders. His familiarity with Stefanski’s system and steady leadership proved decisive in earning the role.
Meanwhile, injuries significantly impacted the other contenders. Pickett has been hampered by a hamstring issue, Sanders is sidelined with an oblique strain, and Gabriel has also battled hamstring trouble.
It is unclear who will round out the QB roster behind Flacco – one of the rookies might ultimately be cut or limited to the practice squad.
A calculated return
Flacco‘s return to Cleveland has been framed as a strategic and familiar move. He first joined the Browns partway through the 2023 season and helped guide them to a playoff berth with an impressive 4-1 stretch. That performance earned him trust and credibility within the organization.
In April 2025, he re-signed with Cleveland on a one-year deal, immediately becoming a frontrunner amidst the uncertainty caused by Deshaun Watson‘s Achilles injury.
Stefanski emphasized that while Flacco‘s leadership is invaluable, the younger quarterbacks are also making strides and pushing each other.
Yet, in a high-stakes division like the AFC North, Cleveland opted for composure and experience to navigate a tough early schedule.
Looking ahead, the final roster decisions – as well as the depth chart – remain to be confirmed after the Browns’ final preseason game. But for now, Flacco holds the reigns, tasked with restoring stability and early season momentum.
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