Stefanski anticipates Deshaun Watson making a full recovery from his season-ending shoulder surgery in time for the next season. Regarding Joe Flacco’s roster status, Stefanski deferred to the General Manager, leaving questions about Flacco’s future with the team.
Despite the impressive late-season performance of Joe Flacco, who likely played his last game with the Browns in their Wild Card Round loss, Stefanski confirmed that Deshaun Watson is the intended starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Flacco’s noteworthy contributions, including throwing 14 touchdowns in six games and surpassing 300 passing yards in his last five games, will not alter the team’s decision to move forward with Watson.
While acknowledging Flacco’s strong play, Stefanski emphasized the team’s necessity to progress with Watson, who is under contract for three more years with a significant financial investment. Watson, recovering from a major shoulder surgery that concluded his season in Week 10, is expected to be ready for action in the spring.
Stefanski expressed confidence in Watson’s recovery, stating, “He’s doing great in rehab…He’ll be ready to roll.” Despite Flacco’s potential elsewhere and the drafting of Dorian Thompson-Robinson as a rookie backup, the Browns are committed to Watson as QB1.
The decision on Flacco’s future and potential re-signing will be left to General Manager Andrew Berry. Stefanski praised Flacco’s contributions to the team and acknowledged his respect for the quarterback, leaving the offseason decisions in the hands of the front office.
Regardless of the outcome with Flacco, the focus remains on Deshaun Watson as the team’s starting quarterback, with hopes that he can return to a high level of play and lead the Browns to success in the upcoming season.
