Why Didn't Browns Bring Back Flacco?

The Cleveland Browns are under intense scrutiny after a 1-4 start to the season, a disappointing 34-13 loss to the Washington Commanders would just be fuel to the fire. As the team’s offense continues to sputter, some fans are now upset the Browns didn’t bring back veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, especially given Deshaun Watson's struggles early this season.

In 2023, Watson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 10, forcing the Browns to sign Flacco, who took the field in week 13 and went on to lead the team to a 4-1 record and a playoff berth. Flacco’s performance—1,616 passing yards and 13 touchdowns in five games—raised hopes that he might return in 2024. However, with Watson set to make $46 million this season, the Browns opted not to re-sign Flacco, focusing instead on their hefty investment in Watson.

Through five games, Watson has failed to live up to expectations . He has yet to surpass 200 passing yards in a single game and has thrown for just 852 yards and five touchdowns. Fans and analysts alike are questioning if the Browns made the right decision, with many calling for backups Jameis Winston or Dorian Thompson-Robinson to step in.

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As the Browns prepare to face the 2-2 Philadelphia Eagles in Week 6, the pressure is mounting. While the Eagles have present their own challenges, they still possess the firepower to make life difficult for Cleveland, especially if the Browns offense continues to struggle. The Browns defense, a bright spot in an otherwise frustrating season, will need help from their offense to stay competitive moving forward.