Joe Flacco’s Return to Cleveland Browns Signals Shift in NFL Quarterback Market

Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has officially rejoined the Cleveland Browns, a move that comes with familiarity but limited long-term potential. The 40-year-old, who previously earned NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors during his 2023 stint with the Browns, brings leadership and experience to a quarterback room already housing Kenny Pickett and Deshaun Watson.

While Flacco’s return may not significantly boost the Browns’ 2025 prospects, it sends ripple effects across the league—particularly in the ongoing quarterback carousel. Notably, this reunion likely eliminates Cleveland as a landing spot for Kirk Cousins, who had been loosely linked to the franchise amid offseason speculation.

The Atlanta Falcons’ commitment to Cousins has grown increasingly complex. After signing him to a $180 million contract and then drafting Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall in 2024, the team opted to keep both quarterbacks. Penix has since been named the starter, but Atlanta appears unwilling to offload Cousins without a worthwhile return.

That dynamic keeps Cousins on the Falcons’ roster for now, despite his backup role, and narrows the market for any significant QB trades ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. Barring a surprise pivot by the Steelers or an injury-induced opening elsewhere, Cousins will likely stay put.

As for the Browns, their draft strategy seems clear: they’re unlikely to pursue a top quarterback like Shedeur Sanders at No. 2 overall. Buzz has instead shifted toward other top prospects, such as Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter. Cleveland could still take a developmental quarterback later in the draft, but a top-tier QB selection seems off the table for 2025.

Flacco’s signing may be modest in impact, but it reflects the Browns’ short-term approach to the position while they wait for a more favorable opportunity in the 2026 quarterback class.