The Cleveland Browns are set to kick off a new NFL season with a tough matchup against Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals. Facing a challenging opener, head coach Kevin Stefanski was forced to make a key decision regarding who will start at quarterback.
While many expected the head coach to lean toward the youth and potential of Shedeur Sanders — or possibly Dillon Gabriel, if healthy — the decision has been made: veteran Joe Flacco will get the Week 1 start.
The news was confirmed via the Browns’ official X account (formerly Twitter): “Joe Cool leading the way. We’ve named Joe Flacco our starting quarterback.”
A packed QB room gave Stefanski several options to lead the first team as signal-caller, but in the end, it was Flacco’s experience and veteran presence that won out over the other candidates.
Too many options for the head coach
Head coach Kevin Stefanski has officially named Joe Flacco the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns‘ season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, ending one of the league’s most widely discussed training camp battles.
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The decision came down to his veteran experience and consistent play during practice, especially as his competitors, Kenny Pickett, and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, all dealt with injuries that limited their preseason reps.
While both rookies flashed impressive potential in their limited game action, Flacco’s steady hand and proven track record—including his remarkable comeback run last season—ultimately gave him the edge to lead the offense as the Browns look to make a Super Bowl push in the competitive AFC.
A highly anticipated debut for the Browns
The Cleveland Browns are set to kick off their 2025 season with a high-stakes divisional showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals. The game is scheduled for Sunday, September 7th, and will take place at the Browns’ home field, Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland.
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