The Cleveland Browns are in a tough spot as they head into Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season. With a disappointing 1-6 record, they now face the loss of starting quarterback Deshaun Watson, who tore his Achilles in Week 7, ending his season. Their upcoming matchup against the 5-2 Baltimore Ravens adds to the challenge.
For now, the Browns will rely on a combination of Jameis Winston and Dorian Thompson-Robinson at quarterback, but a potential trade could offer some relief. One intriguing option for Cleveland would be to bring back veteran Joe Flacco, currently with the Indianapolis Colts, as a potential solution. Flacco’s recent performances, combined with his familiarity with the Browns, make him an interesting target as the trade deadline approaches.
A hypothetical trade could involve Cleveland sending a 2025 sixth-round pick to Indianapolis in exchange for Flacco. The Colts signed Flacco to back up their young quarterback Anthony Richardson, but with Richardson firmly established as their future, Indianapolis may be open to moving Flacco for some extra draft capital. Flacco, who has played three games this season, has been impressive, throwing for 716 yards, seven touchdowns, and just one interception. Despite being 39 years old, Flacco has shown that he still has something left in the tank.
Last season, Flacco helped the Browns reach the playoffs, posting a 4-1 record in his five starts. With Watson’s future uncertain after his struggles and injury, Cleveland could look to Flacco as a bridge quarterback while they search for a long-term solution. Even though trading for Flacco may not change the trajectory of their season, it could give the Browns stability at quarterback as they navigate the remainder of 2024.
For the Colts, moving Flacco for a sixth-round pick could be beneficial. They are committed to Richardson as their future, and flipping Flacco for some draft capital might make sense. However, given Richardson’s struggles this season, Indianapolis may not be in a hurry to part ways with the veteran quarterback just yet.
While the Browns’ playoff hopes seem slim, reuniting with Flacco could provide a short-term fix as they assess their quarterback situation for the future. Given the uncertainty surrounding Watson’s future in Cleveland, it’s a move the Browns should seriously consider.
