Are the Browns Competing with the Ravens to Sub in Quarterback Deshaun Watson?

The AFC North showcased its strength last season, with the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers all securing playoff berths, while the Cincinnati Bengals narrowly missed out.

The Steelers and Browns managed to achieve playoff success despite relying on backup quarterbacks, as Bengals starter Joe Burrow endured a season-ending injury.

Cleveland found a measure of success with former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, stepping in as starter Deshaun Watson suffered another season-ending injury.

ESPN recently proposed “bold moves” for each team, suggesting that the Browns should introduce competition for Watson in the offseason.

“It’s clear: The Watson trade has not yielded the desired results. The Browns’ offense has performed notably better with alternative quarterbacks over the past two seasons. In 2022, Brissett posted a 62.0 QBR compared to Watson’s 40.4 QBR. Last season, Joe Flacco recorded a 48.3 QBR, surpassing Watson’s 42.9 QBR.”

“The Browns need to introduce competition and establish a backup plan if Watson struggles in 2024. They have two options: Draft a young quarterback in the second or third round to compete with Watson in training camp, or re-sign one of the veteran quarterbacks they’ve found success with.”

Could Flacco serve as the answer for the Browns, either as competition for Watson or as the starting quarterback at 39 years old?

“Flacco has expressed a desire to continue his career despite his age, and Browns fans would welcome him back. While Brissett’s 2022 numbers are notable, the Browns could consider signing him to a more economical deal to see if they can replicate previous success. Any of these options would provide insurance for the Browns and prevent them from squandering another strong defense due to poor performance from Watson.”