Veteran QB Flacco Benched for Rookie Gabriel in Cleveland

On October 1st, 2025, the Cleveland Browns made a significant change to their starting quarterback position, benching 40-year-old Joe Flacco in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel. The decision comes after the Browns started the season 1-3, with Flacco's performance at the helm of the struggling offense.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that the team's offensive struggles were not solely Flacco's fault, but the organization felt a change was necessary. Flacco, who had previously led the Browns to the playoffs in 2023, expressed disappointment but said he understood the decision and would embrace his new role as a backup.

"I don't think I foresaw it," Flacco said of his benching. "But, got to the point, had a good conversation about it, and it is what it is." The veteran quarterback noted that the team's overall offensive woes were more difficult to deal with than the loss of his starting job.

Now, the Browns will turn to the young Gabriel, with Flacco vowing to provide positive support and guidance. "I think the best way to help him is continue to come to work with a good mindset every day and provide that positive energy and see what he needs on his end," Flacco said.

While the change may be tough for the veteran, he is determined to be a pro's pro and help the team in any way he can. "You just kind of go back to being yourself and relying on the people around you to help you cope with it a little bit," Flacco added.