Hall of Famer Cris Carter didn’t hold back when asked about the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback outlook heading into the 2025 season.
Appearing on the “Fully Loaded” podcast, the former All-Pro wideout questioned the Browns’ plans under center, specifically aiming at veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, who reunited with Cleveland this offseason after a stint in Indianapolis.
“Nobody’s bringing Joe Flacco in the building, though, thinking he’s the starter,” Carter said. “If Joe Flacco is your starter, you’ve got a problem — you have a huge problem.”
There’s some truth to Carter’s statement. Flacco is 40 years old and has not been a full-time starter since 2017. However, the Browns are looking for some stability at the position as they form a path forward. Flacco is a steady veteran with experience within the Browns system. He spent the back half of the 2023 season with the Browns, going 4-1 down the stretch and helping Cleveland lock up a playoff spot.
Carter believes the job should belong to Kenny Pickett, who the Browns traded for in March. Carter thinks Pickett, a 27-year-old former first-round pick, has more long-term upside.
“Pickett should be the starter,” Carter added. “If you look at potential growth, understanding the vision in NFL offenses.”
Joe Flacco Has Backing of Browns’ Veterans
Flacco’s experience with the Browns gives him a leg up in the competition. Veterans like Myles Garrett sound content to roll with Flacco to open up the regular season, per Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com.
“He’s already felt the love from Browns fans, and has the full support of big-time veterans such as All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett,” Cabot said. “Flacco might not get many as many snaps in practice as the others because he doesn’t need them, but the Browns know what he can do.”
The Browns are in a unique situation. There are not high expectations for the squad, which has a win total projection of just 5.5 — the lowest in the NFL. Cleveland also holds two first-round picks in next year’s draft, creating some urgency to see what the younger quarterbacks on the roster have to offer. If the Browns want to reset at QB with a potential franchise passer, they’ll be in a prime position to do so next offseason.
Browns Taking Time With QB Competition
Pickett and Flacco are joined by rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel in the Browns’ quarterback competition. The Browns have gone through OTAs and minicamp, but have not felt that establishing a firm depth chart was urgent.
“We’re so far away from that type of thought process,” Browns coach Kevin Stefanski said during minicamp. “Honestly, we’re in our installation phase. It’s the offseason; it’s OTAs. So we’re going to keep the focus there. Once you get into training camp, of course you’re getting ready to play games and ultimately getting ready for playing the season. But right now that’s not our focus.”
Training camp is just around the corner, with rookies reporting on July 18. The veterans will join on July 22. The Browns’ first preseason game is scheduled for Aug. 8 against the Carolina Panthers.
