Joe Flacco open to returning to Browns, ‘all things being equal’

This offseason, the Cleveland Browns must answer one significant question at quarterback.

Barring an unforeseen circumstance, Deshaun Watson will have recovered from shoulder surgery and will be able to resume his role as starting quarterback. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who saw action as a rookie in 2023, will take one of the remaining spots in the quarterback room.

That only leaves the veteran backup quarterback position for General Manager Andrew Berry to fill, a post that is critical for the Browns since they cannot afford to have their playoff hopes dashed if Watson is hurt again this autumn.

There are various possibilities to consider when free agency opens next week, ranging from the implausible (Kirk Cousins, Sam Darnold, and Mason Rudolph come to mind) to reconciling with former Cleveland quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett or Tyrod Taylor.

Joe Flacco, who joined the Browns late last season and gave everyone ‘Flacco Fever’ while leading the Browns to the playoffs, is one player who is still associated to the organisation and would fall under the reunion umbrella.

On Wednesday, Flacco went on The SiriusXM Blitz show and, when questioned about staying for another year, indicated he is open to a second act in Cleveland, “all things being equal”:

“Listen, I spoke with my agent this weekend to see what kinds of prospects are out there. I can tell you that, all other things being equal, Cleveland is the place I would be most satisfied with. Then there’s the question of whether or not someone will give me an opportunity to play, and all of the other factors that come into play.

“But I can’t help but feel a unique connection to Cleveland because of the few weeks I spent there and how wonderful the city was. At the end of the day, I don’t want that to play a large role in my decision, but it will be considered if I have to make one.

“Obviously, if I go back to Cleveland, I’ll have to get used to the concept of being the backup. My primary motivation is to play football. However, you cannot make that decision unless you are confronted with difficult circumstances and sit down with your family to choose what is best. There are other factors that might influence my decision, which I may discuss with you. I can honestly say that Cleveland is an incredible location, and it will have a unique significance when I make those selections.”