The Cleveland Browns have a crowded quarterback room following the NFL Draft, in which the AFC North franchise selected Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, adding more depth to the roster. In that context, head coach Kevin Stefanski‘s team has made a final decision to make room in the QB room regarding one of Joe Flacco’s teammates.
Flacco has been adamant about wanting to play until he no longer can. His stance reflects that of a veteran determined to compete for the starting quarterback job in the 2025 NFL season. It’s clear there’s plenty of competition in Cleveland, so in some way, the news impacts the former Indianapolis Colts player.
Stefanski is starting to think long-term. The Browns’ five quarterbacks create a scenario that opens the door for key decisions about the future at a crucial position, where Cleveland’s offensive strength will be built.
The Browns’ decision on one of Joe Flacco’s teammates
The Browns have decided not to exercise the fifth-year option on quarterback Kenny Pickett’s contract, who will compete with Flacco for the starting job. The former Pittsburgh Steelers player will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025 season.
The Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Kenny Pickett from Pittsburgh speaks at the 2021 Heisman Trophy finalist press conference at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on December 11, 2021 in New York City.
Pickett was acquired by the Browns in March 2025 through a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. In exchange for the 26-year-old quarterback, Cleveland sent quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a fifth-round draft pick.
see also
NFL News: Shedeur Sanders has backup plan if things don’t work out with Browns
Who will be the Browns’ starting quarterback?
The quarterback situation for the Browns in the 2025 season is both complex and competitive. With Deshaun Watson sidelined for most of the season due to a torn Achilles tendon, the QB1 spot is up for grabs. Joe Flacco is the most experienced option, although as training camp progresses, it will become clear who is best suited to lead the offense.
