Joe Flacco, who led the Cleveland Browns to an unlikely playoff berth in 2023, expressed a desire to return to the team but was met with surprise when they chose to move on. Now, a year later, Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has revealed that Flacco is "in the conversation" for a potential reunion in 2025, although he cautioned that no decisions have been made. The Browns are actively seeking veteran quarterbacks amidst a major overhaul, especially following their costly trade for Deshaun Watson, who is currently sidelined with a serious injury.

Flacco, now 40, has a history with the Browns, having started six games for them in 2023, where he won four and became a fan favorite. After he was allowed to walk in free agency, he joined the Indianapolis Colts and played eight games in 2024. Meanwhile, Cleveland has traded for Kenny Pickett and is reportedly interested in Kirk Cousins, further indicating their quest for a reliable starter.

The Kirk Cousins saga continues as the Atlanta Falcons remain hesitant to part ways with their veteran quarterback, who signed a hefty contract last year. Despite speculation about a potential trade, particularly to the Cleveland Browns, the Falcons have kept Cousins on their roster, thus triggering a $10 million roster bonus for him in 2026. Head coach Raheem Morris indicated that while the team is open to trade discussions, they don’t expect Cousins to participate in voluntary workouts following the draft, signaling ongoing uncertainty regarding his future.

Michael Penix Jr. is set to take over as the starting quarterback for the Falcons, but the dynamics surrounding Cousins' situation remain fluid. The Browns are reportedly considering him as a viable option, especially given head coach Kevin Stefanski's previous experience with Cousins during their time together at the Minnesota Vikings. With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the Falcons face a critical decision as they navigate Cousins' contract and the implications of retaining him versus exploring trade opportunities.

Jimmy Haslam, co-owner of the Cleveland Browns, has publicly acknowledged that trading for quarterback Deshaun Watson was a significant misstep. Acquired in March 2022 from the Houston Texans for a package including three first-round picks, Watson's $230 million fully guaranteed contract now looms large as he has only started 19 games due to injuries and a lengthy suspension. With one of the lowest Total QBRs in the league, Watson has faced mounting injury problems, including two season-ending injuries in consecutive years. Haslam held himself and the organization accountable, expressing disappointment in the decision to trade for a player whose off-field issues and on-field performance have created a challenging situation for the franchise.

Despite the disappointment with Watson, Haslam indicated that the Browns would not be pressured to select a quarterback with their second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, suggesting a more patient approach to building the team. Currently, Watson’s injury status is uncertain, and the Browns’ quarterback depth now includes Kenny Pickett, whom they acquired in a recent trade.

The Cleveland Browns' ownership has recognized their failed investment in quarterback Deshaun Watson, labeling the trade that brought him to Cleveland as a "big swing and a miss." Team owner Jimmy Haslam expressed regret over the hefty price paid, including three first-round picks and a record $230 million guaranteed, acknowledging that their expectations for Watson were unmet.

Watson's on-field performance has been subpar, with just 19 games played in two seasons and a dismal touchdown-to-interception ratio. His injuries, including a significant Achilles tear, have compounded the issue, leading to further doubts about his future with the franchise. As the Browns prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, they are actively seeking quarterback solutions, hinting at an interest in top prospects while continuing to manage Watson's bloated contract.

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation remains tenuous as they enter the offseason, with only one healthy QB on the roster. Deshaun Watson's status is uncertain following a second surgery on a torn Achilles. The team has made changes, trading Dorian Thompson-Robinson to acquire Kenny Pickett from the Philadelphia Eagles. General Manager Andrew Berry has expressed a measured approach, indicating that they will continue to build their quarterback room without rushing into decisions.

This offseason, the Browns have explored free-agent options; however, notable candidates like Russell Wilson have already signed elsewhere. With the upcoming draft, the team is looking at various QB prospects including Cam Ward and Jalen Milroe, hinting they might add a rookie to the mix. Berry remains optimistic about the potential for a seamless transition for any incoming rookie, while acknowledging that their QB room is likely to trend younger as they look towards the future.