Joe Flacco speaks decisively in his designation as Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback over Shedeur Sanders

Joe Flacco Set for Emotional Return as Browns Take on Ravens

After a decade-long stint with the Baltimore Ravens, Joe Flacco is set to return to M&T Bank Stadium as the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. The 40-year-old veteran, who led the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2012, will face his former team in the Browns' second preseason game.

Flacco's journey with the Ravens began in 2008 when he was selected as the 18th overall pick in the NFL Draft. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular as he became the third rookie quarterback in NFL history to win his first postseason start. This historic achievement set the stage for a successful career with the Ravens.

In his rookie season, Flacco led the Ravens to the AFC Championship, where they faced the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although they fell short, Flacco's performance was impressive enough to earn him the NFL Rookie of the Year award.

The Ravens reached the playoffs each season over the next three years with Flacco at the helm, culminating in a Super Bowl victory in 2012. In that season, Flacco led the Ravens to a 34-31 win against the San Fransisco 49ers, securing his place in the annals of Ravens' history.

After a one-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts, Flacco returned to the Ravens in 2023, following an impressive season with the Browns. However, his tenure with the Ravens was short-lived as he was let go, paving the way for his current role with the Browns.

Flacco's first proper test with the Browns will be against the Cincinnati Bengals. His first preseason snaps will be against the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday. Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel have had opportunities to shine in the two preseason outings so far, but Flacco's experience and leadership could prove crucial in the Browns' quest for success.

Despite being the elder statesman in the Browns' quarterback room, Flacco has emphasized that his priority is playing football games, not mentoring the younger players. Kenny Pickett is still feeling his way back from injury and is likely to see less game time, leaving Flacco as the clear-cut starter for the Browns' preseason games.

Flacco has expressed excitement about playing against the Baltimore Ravens, a team he considers a special place with unbelievable fans. The Browns' game against the Ravens promises to be an emotional reunion for Flacco, who spent ten years with the team and won a Super Bowl with them.

With Flacco's contract with the Ravens worth $120 million, making him the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL at the time, and his impressive career statistics, the Browns have high hopes for their new signing. As the preseason progresses, fans will be eager to see how Flacco fares in his new team and whether he can replicate his success with the Ravens.

Joe Flacco speaks decisively in his designation as Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback over Shedeur Sanders