When Joe Flacco joined the Cleveland Browns during the middle of the 2023 season, the team played the best football they’ve played in nearly a decade.
Flacco did everything he could to bring the Browns to the playoffs, putting up impressive stats in his five games as a starter.
The veteran threw for 1,616 yards, 13 touchdowns, and completed 60.3% of his passes.
After his showing in the 2023 season, many still believe Flacco has another few years left in the tank at 40.
He was a member of the Indianapolis Colts last season and backed up Anthony Richardson before becoming a starter in the middle of the season.
There are a few teams that could use him in the same role the Colts used him in last season, including the Minnesota Vikings.
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Dane Mizutani of Twin Cities linked the two over the weekend, adding that Minnesota could be interested in him helping J.J. McCarthy develop and win games when needed.
“After serving as the backup with the Indianapolis Colts last season, the 40-year-old was a sounding board for maligned quarterback Anthony Richardson, and also showed the ability to come in and win a game in a pinch.
“There’s already a connection in place as Flacco and O’Connell were prospects in the same draft class. That familiarity with each other could help bridge the gap when it comes to contract negotiations,” Mizutani wrote.
Given Flacco’s cheap price, his 17 years worth of experience, and ability to not only win games, but help McCarthy learn the ins and outs of the NFL, he might be the best option for Minnesota to pursue.
It’s surprising that he still remains on the market, but he should find a home in the foreseeable future.
Unless he wants to call it a career, there’s value in having him in a quarterback room.
