BAD NEWS: Joe Flacco stated that he believed the Browns made the right choice in signing Jameis Winston over him.

Joe Flacco, speaking to the media for the first time since the Browns chose Jameis Winston over him as their backup quarterback for the 2024 season, admitted he was somewhat surprised by the decision. Signed by the Colts as a backup to Anthony Richardson instead, Flacco acknowledged feeling a bit taken aback when asked about not returning to Cleveland.

His sentiments echoed those of many Browns fans who had rallied behind him during his successful 4-1 playoff run with the team. In fact, just before the start of the ‘legal tampering period’ on March 11, it was highly probable that Flacco would rejoin the Browns, according to a league source.

However, negotiations with Winston’s representatives swiftly gained momentum, and by the second day of the negotiating period, the Browns had reached an agreement with Winston on a one-year contract worth $4 million, with additional incentives totaling $4.7 million.

Flacco had been so confident about his potential return to Cleveland that he had scheduled a private event for Browns fans at Top Golf and an autograph session at Hartville Marketplace. Despite charging $85 for autographs and $120 for photos, with fans waiting for over two hours, Flacco received a flat fee of $50,000 for the event, with the proceeds going to the organizer.

Nonetheless, Flacco wasn’t lacking in opportunities or financial security, having already secured a one-year deal with the Colts worth a guaranteed $4.5 million, potentially reaching $8.7 million, similar to Winston’s contract.

Reflecting on his uncertain offseason, Flacco acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future despite his expectation of returning to Cleveland, particularly considering his limited game time.

Despite the turn of events, Flacco’s impact during his brief stint with the Browns, marked by 13 touchdown passes and four consecutive 300-yard games, left a lasting impression and a lingering sense of “Flacco Fever” in Cleveland.