Flash: Updates on Browns quarterback Joe Flacco

Joe Flacco was added to the Browns as a seasoned quarterback in response to Deshaun Watson’s season-ending injury.

Compared to Dorian Thompson-Robinson and P.J. Walker, the quarterbacks he is currently battling with on the depth chart, the latter has far more NFL experience.

Despite being signed (originally to the team’s practice squad) to provide a better floor as a backup than Walker, Flacco will not be wearing a uniform for Week 12. According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Flacco will probably move up to the number two spot in the quarterback hierarchy quite soon, but on Sunday, the tandem of Thompson, Robinson, and Walker will still be in place. Confirming their short-term plans, the Browns decided not to elevate Flacco on game day.

Following Flacco’s signing, head coach Kevin Stefanski swiftly said that Thompson-Robinson would remain the Browns’ starting quarterback (via ESPN’s Jake Trotter). Although the rookie’s performance in his two starts thus far has been far from brilliant (55% completion percentage, zero touchdowns, four interceptions), his preseason performances secured him the No. 2 spot behind Watson, and it is clear that he has a lot greater knowledge with the game than Flacco does. However, Cleveland’s primary choice for a midseason addition was the latter.

Regarding that, according to Tony Grossi of ESPN 850, the Browns were pleased with Flacco’s movement as well as his arm strength. The 38-year-old former Super Bowl MVP was never renowned for his quickness, so expectations in that area will definitely be reduced. It is noteworthy, however, that in his attempt to extend his now 16-year career, he was able to garner favorable feedback from the organization during his assessment as a street free agency. It will be intriguing to observe how soon Flacco, the backup, is able to gain noticed.

Naturally, Walker’s actions in that role—should he be given the chance to play soon—will influence Cleveland’s choice at quarterback. Considering his inexperience and current play, Thompson-Robinson is also far from certain to be a starter at this time. Still, he will be at the top of the depth chart for at least another week, and the Browns offense will be watching Flacco’s adjustment period and any adjustments it may bring about as a plot point.