Joe Flacco’s role with the Cleveland Browns is once again under scrutiny after a 34-10 defeat to the Detroit Lions on Sunday.
The veteran quarterback opened the game with an impressive 88-yard drive that ended with rookie running back Quinshon Judkins punching it in from the 1-yard line. But from that point forward, things unraveled. Flacco threw a pair of interceptions and also lost a fumble in the fourth quarter. By game’s end, the Browns had managed just 249 yards of total offense.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski pulled Flacco late in the fourth quarter, turning to rookie Dillon Gabriel with the Browns trailing by 24. Gabriel attempted only one pass, which fell incomplete. It marked the second time this season that Flacco has been removed mid-game — the other coming in a blowout loss to the Baltimore Ravens earlier this year.
Following the game, Flacco faced questions about his future as the team’s starter.
“You can’t dwell on that as a player,” Flacco said. “I came here knowing I’d have to compete and help lead this team. Everyone in this league is evaluated constantly, and quarterbacks are no different. Obviously, it’s disappointing to perform the way we did today, but beyond that, I’m not worrying about things I can’t control.”
Stefanski Deflects Quarterback Questions
Cleveland’s offense has been stagnant all season, averaging just 13.3 points per game and struggling to create explosive plays. When asked about the quarterback situation, Stefanski downplayed the idea of a change.
“When we struggle like that offensively, I understand the question,” Stefanski said. “But it’s not our focus right now. This isn’t about one player. I need to coach better, and collectively we have to improve.”
Still, Flacco’s turnovers remain a concern. He has already thrown six interceptions and lost two fumbles. His first pick against Detroit — a poorly thrown ball down the sideline that landed directly in the hands of Lions safety Kerby Joseph with no Browns receiver nearby — stood out as a costly mistake. Flacco admitted responsibility: “That one’s on me. When you hand over field position like that, it hurts the entire team.”
Calls for Rookie QBs Growing Louder
With Cleveland sitting at 1-3 and near the bottom of the league in offensive production, the pressure to evaluate younger options is building. Gabriel, a third-round pick known for his quick decision-making and ability to move the pocket, is the most likely to see action first. The Browns also have first-round prospect Shedeur Sanders waiting in the wings, who has already voiced his readiness to start.
The Browns hold two first-round selections in next year’s draft, leaving the possibility open that the organization could pursue a new franchise quarterback if the position doesn’t stabilize soon.
