Following his unexpected role in leading the Cleveland Browns to the playoffs last season, Joe Flacco emerges as a sought-after veteran quarterback in the upcoming free agency market. With his seasoned experience and demonstrated capabilities, Flacco could potentially fill a key position for teams eyeing a quarterback upgrade. One such team showing interest in Flacco is the New England Patriots, who hold the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and seek to bolster their quarterback roster following a lackluster performance from Mac Jones last season.
According to a report by MassLive.com’s Mark Daniels, Karen Guregian, and Chris Mason, there appears to be divided opinions within the Patriots organization regarding Flacco.
Some view him as an ideal complement to a first-round draft pick, citing his veteran leadership and on-field abilities. Conversely, others question the wisdom of signing a 39-year-old quarterback who they feel struggled during playoff appearances.
Nevertheless, despite internal debates, rumors persist linking Flacco to the Patriots. ESPN’s Adam Schefter, speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, identified Flacco along with Jacoby Brissett as potential candidates to address the Patriots’ quarterback situation.
Schefter also noted the connection between Flacco and the Patriots’ new offensive coordinator, Alex Van Pelt, who previously worked with Flacco during his time with the Cleveland Browns.
Flacco’s performance last season, guided by Van Pelt, showcased a mix of successes and challenges. He maintained a completion rate of 60.3% while throwing for 1,616 yards, 13 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. Despite inconsistencies, Flacco demonstrated the potential to contribute positively to a team.
The question remains whether Joe Flacco could assume the starting quarterback role for the Patriots next season. While uncertainties persist, his experience and skill set could serve as valuable assets in mentoring a rookie quarterback or providing stability in a transitional period for the team.
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