Joe Flacco Trade Watch: Will the Browns Move Their Veteran Quarterback This Offseason?

By Jason Bolton June 07, 2025 10:27

As the 2025 NFL offseason progresses, speculation continues to swirl around Joe Flacco’s future with the Cleveland Browns. The veteran quarterback, who has experienced a remarkable late-career resurgence with Cleveland, finds himself at the center of a quarterback competition and trade rumors that could reshape the Browns’ roster heading into the new season.

Flacco’s Recent Impact and Role in Cleveland

Joe Flacco, 40, is no stranger to NFL success. The former Super Bowl MVP led the Baltimore Ravens to a championship in 2013 and has amassed over $175 million in career earnings. After bouncing around several teams, Flacco joined the Browns late in the 2023 season, initially on a modest practice squad deal. His veteran presence and steady play helped the Browns clinch a playoff spot, finishing with a 4-1 record in games he started, throwing 13 touchdowns and 1,616 passing yards in just five appearances.

Despite his age, Flacco’s leadership and experience have been invaluable to Cleveland. He signed a one-year, $4 million deal in 2025 to return and compete for the starting quarterback job, emphasizing that he is not just a mentor but intends to lead by example and win games. During the Browns’ organized team activities (OTAs), Flacco impressed coaches and teammates alike with his strong arm and connection with receivers like Jerry Jeudy.

The Quarterback Competition and Trade Rumors

The Browns’ quarterback room is crowded, featuring not only Flacco but also Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and rookie Shedeur Sanders. With Deshaun Watson sidelined indefinitely due to a second Achilles injury, the team faces uncertainty at the position. While Flacco has the experience edge, many analysts believe his best days are behind him. Pro Football Focus analyst John Kosko ranked Flacco among the bottom five starting quarterbacks in the league, citing concerns about his declining physical abilities and inconsistency.

This uncertainty has fueled trade speculation. Some insiders suggest the Browns could explore moving Flacco to clear cap space and give younger quarterbacks more opportunities. However, as of late May 2025, no concrete trade offers have materialized, and Cleveland’s front office appears committed to an open competition.

Financial and Contractual Considerations

Flacco’s contract situation adds complexity. His 2025 deal is relatively modest by NFL standards but includes incentives that could push his earnings up to $4.5 million. Given the Browns’ salary cap constraints and their investment in younger quarterbacks, moving Flacco could provide financial flexibility. However, his veteran presence and proven ability to manage games make him a valuable insurance policy, especially with Watson’s uncertain status.

What’s Next for Flacco and the Browns?

Flacco has made it clear he intends to compete fiercely for the starting job and is motivated by the city’s passion for football. “It’s a cool place, and the last time I was here, you could feel it. It’s a city that loves football and is hungry for wins,” Flacco said. “I’m working hard to put us in the best position to put myself in the best position to go out there and win football games”.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski has emphasized that the quarterback competition is wide open, and decisions will be made closer to training camp. Flacco’s familiarity with Stefanski’s system and his strong OTA performances position him as a frontrunner, but the Browns remain cautious given the presence of younger, more athletic options.

Joe Flacco’s future with the Cleveland Browns remains uncertain but pivotal. While trade rumors persist, the veteran quarterback’s experience, leadership, and recent success have earned him a legitimate chance to start in 2025. The Browns must balance the need to develop youth with the desire to compete immediately, making the quarterback decision one of the most critical offseason storylines. Whether Flacco remains in Cleveland or moves on, his impact on the team’s trajectory cannot be understated.