BEREA, Ohio (AP) – The Browns grabbed Joe Flacco in near desperation last month, hoping the veteran quarterback would keep them in the playoff picture. They needed someone to mediate the situation as injuries and uncertainty mounted.
When Flacco arrived, expectations were lowered.
They’re free after four games.
Not only does Flacco have Cleveland on the cusp of its second postseason berth in 21 years, but the 38-year-old quarterback has many in this football-crazed city feeling that anything is possible with these Browns — and their top-ranked defense.
In four games, he’s passed for 1,307 yards and 10 touchdowns, tying him with Matthew Stafford of the Rams and Brock Purdy of the 49ers for the most in that time.
Not bad for a guy who spent months at home in New Jersey watching games on TV, wondering whether he had thrown his final pass.
Flacco clearly has something left in the tank.
“He’s played really well,” said All-Star left guard Joel Bitonio. “I had no idea what to anticipate. I saw him toss in some practice. I’m thinking, he seems like he can still throw, but going out there and playing isn’t the same as practicing.
“He’s been fantastic for us. He’s always been a leader. He’s really helped to steady the ship, and we’re grateful to have him.”
Deshaun Watson visited the Browns’ facilities for the first time since suffering season-ending shoulder surgery on Tuesday. In most years, the presence of Cleveland’s starting quarterback would provoke a far stronger reaction.
No, not just now. These are Flacco’s Browns.
As fate would have it, he can help the Browns secure a postseason berth with a win over the New York Jets on Thursday night – the team Flacco played for last season. New York declined to re-sign him in the summer or after Aaron Rodgers suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in the season opener.
Flacco believes he has no ill will toward the Jets.
“There’s all kinds of things that happen throughout the course of the season and offseason,” the coach remarked. “I had a good time while I was there, and that’s all that matters.” I’m certainly content with where I am.”
It’s interesting to speculate about what may have been, but Flacco maintains he’s not doing so.
“Listen, there’s 32 teams in the NFL,” he went on to say. “They’re just another one of those teams.” I’ve got a lot of guys in that locker room I truly admire and had a great few years with, so I have a lot of regard for those guys.”
The Jets released Flacco.
The Browns have no idea where they would be without him.
This is the passing offense coach Kevin Stefanski always envisioned, and it’s the one he knows best from his time with Minnesota. Flacco’s pocket poise, size, experience and underrated mobility allow plays to develop, enabling receivers to get deeper into their routes.
And Flacco’s big arm lets Stefanski occasionally call for some downfield shots.
Houston’s running game was nearly non-existent, but that wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. It could, however, become one.
Against the Texans, the Browns gained 54 yards on 30 carries, a paltry 1.8 yards per carry. Stefanski tried the wildcat formation (straight snaps to running backs), but it was ineffective.
With two starters returning, Cleveland’s offensive line has gotten a little healthier, which helps. However, with weather expected to be a factor this week and possibly in the playoffs, the Browns must be able to run the ball successfully.
Amari Cooper was not content with just one record.
At Houston, the wide receiver caught 11 catches for 265 yards, a franchise high. Cooper also became the first Browns player in history to have consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. Cooper, who has 1,250 yards, is also the only player to have a 200-yard game with three different teams, joining Terrell Owens.
Martin Emerson Jr., the Texans’ cornerback, was called for three infractions. Aside from that, the 23-year-old has had a solid second season.
INJURIES
K Dustin Hopkins is considered “week to week” after injuring his left hamstring (plant leg) while attempting to stop a 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. Hopkins’ injury prompted the Browns to sign Riley Patterson, who was just released by the Detroit Lions. … P Corey Bojorquez has a leg issue and could miss time as well. He also holds on field goals, compounding Cleveland’s dilemma. … S Juan Thornhill (calf) returned to practice after missing three games due to injury.
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