Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, now 40 and unfazed, has emerged as the internet's preferred signal-caller -- potentially offering the best prospects for the Cleveland Browns.
Joe Flacco Ready for 18th NFL Season with Cleveland Browns
Joe Flacco, the veteran quarterback, is gearing up for his 18th NFL season, aiming to secure the starting job for the Cleveland Browns in 2025. Despite his age, Flacco remains driven to prove his worth and win games.
Growing up in South Jersey, Flacco has deep roots in the area. He and his wife Dana are raising their five children there, and Flacco recently built a house that is conveniently located near his parents', in-laws', and the family's previous residence.
Flacco's journey in the NFL began when he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, surrounded by veteran players like Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed, and others. He recalls them as "a lot of personalities." Flacco's ability to handle these personalities, combined with his exceptional skill at concealing his emotions, earned him the "Joe Cool" nickname.
Throughout his career, Flacco's dry sense of humor and disregard for others' perceptions of his "old guy" opinions have remained consistent. His relaxed demeanor during practices is a result of his ability to discern the weight to give to critics and his desire to enjoy the game.
Flacco's sons, who engage in friendly trash talk with him, are eager for him to win another Super Bowl. According to second son Daniel, this is the key to stopping being called "stinks" by his children.
Flacco's authentic personality is appreciated by his teammates, opponents, and a new generation of fans, earning him respect and endearment. Torrey Smith, a former teammate, confirms that Flacco's personality has remained the same over the past 18 years.
During the 2023 season, Flacco led the Browns to a 4-1 record in five regular-season starts, displaying strong arm talent and downfield passing ability. His history, along with his experience and familiarity with the offense, has kept his prospects strong.
The Browns find themselves in an unusual situation at quarterback, with four candidates vying for the job. General manager Andrew Berry has suggested they might keep all four on the roster given the flexibility in today's NFL roster rules. Flacco is competing against Kenny Pickett and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.
Despite not taking many reps during OTAs (offseason training activities), Flacco is determined to prove he can still play and win games. Training camp will be different, he has been told, and he is ready to seize the opportunity.
As for Flacco's future beyond the NFL, there is no direct information about his post-NFL plans. However, Flacco has indicated he will continue playing as long as he is enjoying the game, implying no immediate retirement plans. His outlook seems focused on finishing his playing career on his terms, with fun and competition as key motivators.
- Flacco's sons, who keep him on his toes with friendly banter, are particularly keen for him to win another Super Bowl, as they currently refer to him as "stinks."
- Apart from football, Flacco's dry humor and unabashed opinions, regardless of his age, have made him a favorite among fans, earning him endearment and respect.
- As the NFL season looms, Flacco finds himself in a competitive environment, battling Kenny Pickett and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders for the starting quarterback position with the Cleveland Browns.
- Significant players like Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed, and others set the stage for Flacco's NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens and contributed to the diverse cast of personalities he was surrounded by.
- In addition to American football, Flacco's love for sports extends to MMA, cheering for fellow athletes such as Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov in mixed martial arts competitions.
- Despite the fierce competition and the demands of the NFL, Flacco refuses to back down, eager to prove his worth and gamble on a 18th successful season in the league.
