Joe Flacco has been named the new starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, just under two weeks after joining the team.
The Browns made the announcement on Friday, confirming that Flacco would be starting in the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams, according to Cleveland.com. This decision came after rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson was ruled out due to a concussion.
At 38 years old, Flacco’s last NFL appearance was with the New York Jets last season, where he started four games amidst a tumultuous season. He signed with the Browns on Nov. 19 and will now become the team’s fourth starting quarterback this season.
Deshaun Watson started the year as the Browns’ quarterback, but injuries led to Thompson-Robinson and veteran backup P.J. Walker also getting starts. Watson’s season ended in Week 9 due to a shoulder fracture, with Thompson-Robinson then struggling in subsequent games and now in the concussion protocol.
Instead of opting for Walker, the Browns turned to Flacco and have begun promoting him on social media.
Flacco spent nearly a decade as the Ravens’ full-time starter but has struggled to find a consistent starting job since 2018. Despite this, the Browns are hoping for a competent offense, which could make them a serious contender in the postseason race. With a current record of 7-4, the Browns rank 21st in NFL yards gained and lead the league in offensive turnovers, while also boasting the top defense and being seventh in points allowed per game.
The Browns’ matchup against the Rams is scheduled for Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET
