Joe Flacco signs one-year contract with Browns, opt for stability over trade

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 11, 2025, 19:01 IST

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The Cleveland Browns are prioritizing experience by re-signing Joe Flacco to a one-year deal, signaling their commitment to stability amid uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson's recovery. Flacco's previous success in leading the team to the playoffs and his proven leadership make him a valuable asset. This move reflects Cleveland's focus on immediate competitiveness in a tough AFC North.

Joe Flacco signs one-year contract with Browns, opt for stability over trade

Joe Flacco (Via: Getty Images)

In a league where fresh faces usually steal the spotlight, the Cleveland Browns are choosing experience over hype. Joe Flacco is back in the mix, re-signing on a one-year deal that reflects more than just roster depth, it shows trust. After leading the team to a surprise playoff run last season, Flacco’s return signals Cleveland’s commitment to stability as they gear up for another postseason push.

Browns double down on Joe Flacco as locker room anchor

The Rise, Fall and Resurgence of Joe Flacco

Joe Flacco isn’t just returning to Cleveland, he’s stepping into a role that could define the Browns' 2025 campaign. The former Super Bowl MVP has inked a one-year deal worth $4 million, with incentives that could boost the value to $13 million. But beyond the numbers, this signing signals Cleveland's desire to lean on proven poise instead of raw promise.

Flacco’s first stint with the Browns in 2023 was nothing short of cinematic. Signed midseason, he orchestrated four crucial wins in five starts, lifting a wounded team into the playoffs and earning the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award. His ability to steady the offense under pressure instantly won over both the locker room and the fanbase. Now, as uncertainty looms over Deshaun Watson’s recovery from a torn Achilles, Flacco’s return feels like a move of calculated confidence.
Yes, the Browns added Kenny Pickett to the mix and continue to be linked to top quarterback prospects in the draft. But Flacco offers what neither of them currently can: a deep well of experience, command in high-stakes situations, and a track record of keeping calm when the stakes are sky-high.

Cleveland chooses proven leader to navigate uncertainty

This signing isn’t about headlines, it’s about trust. Trust in a quarterback who already proved he can elevate the players around him. Trust in a leader who can guide a playoff-caliber roster while others heal or develop. Flacco may not be the long-term answer, but he could be the bridge that keeps Cleveland competitive in the now.
Also Read: Cam Ward’s NFL draft buzz: The 2025 dynamic QB earning Patrick Mahomes comparisons
As the AFC North only gets more ruthless, the Browns aren’t rolling the dice on development, they’re investing in dependability. Joe Flacco might not have the flash of a rising rookie, but if Cleveland is serious about making noise in January, he may just be the one to carry the mic.
In a league obsessed with the future, the Browns are betting that experience still wins games and Joe Flacco is back to prove them right.

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TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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