Joe Flacco named Browns backup QB, gets first-team reps

Field Level Media|published: Wed 29th November, 16:31 2023

Nov 26, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco (15) on the sidelines during the second half against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. credits: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Browns confirmed Wednesday that Joe Flacco is the primary backup quarterback and will get the start this week if Dorian Thompson-Robinson is unable to clear concussion protocol.

Flacco, 38, took the first-team reps in Wednesday's practice after Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski announced the move. The Browns (7-4) visit the Los Angeles Rams (5-6) on Sunday.

Flacco, who has played in 183 games (180 starts), last played — and started — in a Week 17 game for the New York Jets early last January.

Thompson-Robinson exited late in the third quarter of last week's game against the host Denver Browns with a concussion and was replaced by P.J. Walker.

The Browns signed Flacco to the practice squad last week in the wake of Deshuan Watson's season-ending shoulder injury.

Flacco appeared in five games (four starts) with the New York Jets last season. He threw for 1,051 yards with five touchdowns and three picks.

Flacco has amassed 42,320 yards through the air with 232 touchdowns and 147 interceptions for the Baltimore Ravens (2008-18), Denver Broncos (2019) and Jets (2020-22).

Flacco led Baltimore to a Super Bowl in 2013 and was named MVP as the Ravens beat the San Francisco 49ers 34-31.

—Field Level Media