Overview

• Head coach Kevin Stefanski defended starting Joe Flacco, saying the 40-year-old is physically the same as in 2023 and has taken the bulk of first-team reps since the decision.
• The initial depth chart lists Flacco at QB1 with rookie Dillon Gabriel as the primary backup and Shedeur Sanders at No. 3 after Cleveland traded Kenny Pickett to the Raiders.
• Opinions on Flacco’s leash diverge, with one analyst predicting he starts all 17 games while Browns insider reporting indicates Gabriel would get the first shot if performance dips and Sanders could see action later.
• Cleveland holds two first-round picks in 2026 and is widely expected to target a franchise quarterback, with one local insider even urging a move up that would cost three first-rounders.
• The front office’s evaluation process and future planning prompted additional speculation, including a reported proposal that Cleveland could explore a midseason trade for Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, which remains hypothetical.