Joe Flacco Named Cleveland Browns Starting Quarterback for Season Opener Against Bengals
BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns have officially named veteran quarterback Joe Flacco as their starter for the Week 1 opener of the 2025 NFL season against the Cincinnati Bengals, the team announced on August 18, 2025.
After a competitive offseason that saw the Browns add six quarterbacks to their roster, Flacco emerged as the clear frontrunner throughout training camp and preseason preparations. The Browns’ coaching staff indicated that Flacco’s experience and command over the offense made him the best candidate to lead the team as they begin the new campaign.
Flacco, 40, has been practicing with the first-team offense and took the majority of the reps in joint practices against other NFL teams like the Panthers and Eagles. Although he did not participate in the first two preseason games, he fully utilized training camp to prepare, staying focused on honing his skills and timing within the Browns’ offensive system.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed confidence in Flacco’s ability to run the Browns’ offense, noting the quarterback’s previous success in Stefanski’s scheme during the 2023 season, which contributed to the Browns reaching the postseason. Flacco’s skill in stretching the field with deep passing complements the team’s run-heavy approach, making him a strategic fit.
The decision also reflects challenges faced by other quarterbacks on the roster. Rookie Shedeur Sanders showed flashes of potential earlier in preseason but suffered an oblique injury that limited his ability to push Flacco for the starting job. Similarly, fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel contended with a hamstring injury that sidelined him during critical preseason repetitions. Kenny Pickett’s hamstring issues further diminished the veteran-versus-rookie competition, ultimately paving the way for Flacco’s unchallenged ascendancy.
The Browns will host the Cincinnati Bengals on September 7 at their home stadium. With Flacco under center, the team aims to capitalize on his veteran leadership and steady command to start the 2025 NFL season on a strong note.
This move marks a key milestone in the Browns’ offseason quarterback rebuild, prioritizing experience as they seek to advance beyond previous playoff hurdles.