The Cleveland Browns have officially named veteran Joe Flacco as their starting quarterback for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 7. Flacco, 40, will be making his first Week 1 start since 2022 when he played for the New York Jets. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the decision, citing Flacco as the best option currently available. Flacco's contract includes incentives that could lead to a substantial payday. Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts have named Daniel Jones as their Week 1 starting quarterback for their opener against the Miami Dolphins, also on September 7. Jones won the starting job over incumbent Anthony Richardson, the Colts' 2023 first-round pick, who will serve as the backup. Colts head coach Shane Steichen affirmed that Jones will be the team's starter for the entire season. The decision has sparked discussion among analysts and fans, with Richardson and his agent reportedly expressing dissatisfaction with the choice. Both teams enter their Week 1 games with new starting quarterbacks, marking notable quarterback decisions ahead of the 2025 NFL season kickoff.
Who is the Browns' starting QB today? Flacco, Sanders, Gabriel in mix https://t.co/vecQbinuqq
Report: The Browns have "never wavered" in their plan to keep all four QBs, including Shedeur Sanders, per @marykaycabot. Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel and Sanders will all still be on the team's 53-man roster by cutdown day Tuesday. https://t.co/EsMmevipvl
"Good vibes." ⌚️ Shedeur Sanders arrives for the Browns' preseason finale 🔥 https://t.co/ZNsFNjcQcH