'Potential Controversy?' Why Did Ex Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco Not Re-Sign With Cleveland Browns?

Former Baltimore Ravens signal-caller Joe Flacco played well for the Cleveland Browns last season, and led them to a playoff berth.

Jan 13, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco (15) throws the ball / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Former Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco was the season savior for the Cleveland Browns last season.

After signing due to injuries to both starter Deshaun Watson and backup Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Flacco led the Browns to a playoff berth and posted impressive numbers.

Jan 13, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco (15) throws the ball / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Now with the Indianapolis Colts, Flacco shocked a lot of football people with his late-season performance in Cleveland. But surprisingly, he didn't re-sign with the team this offseason, after expressing an interest in doing so.

While no specific reason for his permanent departure was given, Flacco thinks he knows why.

Per NFL.com, Joe Flacco says he was surprised he didn't end up resigning with the Browns. Flacco would've love to go back to Cleveland, but the Browns felt he didn't fit their scheme, and opted to sign Jamies Winston instead.

Previous rumors indicated Flacco didn't return due to the two sides being unable to agree to a new contract.

But from the outside looking in, Flacco seemingly almost ran the offense better than starter Deshaun Watson, who's had little success in the 12 games over two seasons he's played in a Cleveland uniform.

Is it possible the Browns were attempting to avoid a quarterback controversy in Cleveland?

If Watson continues to struggle and Flacco is sitting on the bench, fans would no doubt begin to question Watson's fit with the team. Either way, Cleveland went with Jameis Winston, who's done little at either prior stop to make anyone thinks he's a viable No. 2 behind anyone.

Whatever the reason, Flacco's in Indy now, backing up Anthony Richardson. And if Richardson goes down again, you'd have to think the Colts are in a good place.