Cleveland Browns thrive with Joe Flacco, while the Jets struggle without him
The Cleveland Browns and New York Jets have both faced the loss of their starting quarterbacks this season, but their paths since have diverged significantly. For the Browns, a strong defense and the decision to sign Joe Flacco have helped propel them towards playoff contention. In contrast, the Jets have struggled to overcome the absence of their starting quarterback, with their backup situation proving to be a source of difficulty.
When both teams found themselves in need of a quarterback after their starters went down, Joe Flacco was available and unsigned. However, while the Browns chose to sign Flacco, the Jets never made the call. Despite Flacco’s solid performance for the Jets last year, including leading them to a comeback win over the Browns, the Jets opted to stick with their chosen trio of quarterbacks: Rodgers, Zach Wilson, and Tim Boyle.
Jets coach Robert Saleh has defended the decision not to sign Flacco, stating that there are “never regrets” about the choice made. He emphasized the team’s satisfaction with their chosen quarterback room, which they had developed over the course of OTAs and training camp.
Saleh expressed his fondness for Flacco, acknowledging his talent and success, but remained steadfast in his support of the Jets’ decision. However, many observers have noted that Flacco has performed better for the Browns this season than any of the three quarterbacks the Jets have used in the absence of Rodgers. With Flacco’s experience and competence, it’s been suggested that the Jets might still be in playoff contention if they had opted to sign him.
As the Browns continue to benefit from Flacco’s presence, the decision not to sign him has left the Jets struggling with their quarterback situation. While Saleh may stand by the choice made, the question of what could have been lingers for the Jets as they face a challenging season without their starting quarterback.