Joe Flacco will be the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns this year. Now, HC Kevin Stefanski has revealed the key aspect that separated the veteran from Shedeur Sanders and the rest of the team’s signal-callers in making this decision.
After several months of speculation, the Browns have finally announced who will lead the offense in the 2025 NFL season. Joe Flacco will try to guide the team to success and prove he still has what it takes to win at the highest level.
Stefanski made it clear from the beginning that Flacco was the favorite to start. Now, the head coach has explained the key aspect the veteran brings—and why it earned him the QB1 role.
Kevin Stefanski gets real on why the Browns named Joe Flacco the starting QB
Kevin Stefanski has found his starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. The coach apparently had little doubt about the choice, as Flacco possesses one quality that sets him apart from the rest: his confidence.
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“I thought he’s done exactly what we’ve asked him to do and I think we have a lot of confidence in him,” Stefanski said in Tuesday’s press conference.
While Stefanski didn’t directly say that Shedeur Sanders, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel lack that same confidence, it’s clear he values having an experienced quarterback under center in what could be a decisive season for his own future.
Stefanski has yet to deliver the success expected by the Browns’ front office, which is why he leaned on the obvious choice: a quarterback who knows what it’s like to win a Super Bowl and who carries fewer questions than the other options.
Joe Flacco #15 of the Cleveland Browns walks off the field after the AFC Wild Card Playoffs against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 13, 2024 in Houston, Texas.
The real competition now lies behind Flacco. As of today, Kenny Pickett is listed as QB2 thanks to his experience, with Dillon Gabriel in the third spot. However, Shedeur Sanders impressed in his debut, leading many to believe he could challenge for the backup role this year.
When will the Browns announce the 53-man roster?
Uncertainty still surrounds the Browns. While naming Joe Flacco as the starter resolved one issue, the team still has four other quarterbacks battling for a place on the final roster.
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NFL teams must finalize their 53-man rosters by August 26. The big question is whether Shedeur Sanders will make the cut—or if the former Buffaloes standout could be traded before the 2025 season begins.
