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QB Decisions in Cleveland and Indy: Safe Choices, Uncertain Futures

August 20, 2025

Browns

To the surprise of no one, the Cleveland Browns announced that Joe Flacco would be their Week 1 starter in three weeks against the Bengals. There had been much made about the progress that Shedeur Sanders seemed to have shown during his preseason start against the Panthers, however, with Sanders not ready to go due to an oblique injury, the progress seems to be at a standstill. Dillion Gabriel started the Week 2 preseason game with mixed results after overcoming his own hamstring injuries. Asking a rookie to come in and start when things go live in September is a tall order for anyone. Many first round picks don’t come out of the gate with much success. Joe Flacco may be the old and boring vet but he no doubt gives them the best chance to win, at least for now.

Colts

Speaking of first round picks stepping in and having success, Indianapolis has two of them that can’t seem to figure out the NFL. On one hand, you have the Giants throwaway quarterback in Daniel Jones (formerly known as Danny Dimes), and on the other you have former 4th overall draft pick Anthony Richardson who just can’t seem to stay healthy. Richardson is oozing with athleticism and ability, but there always seems to be something getting in the way. This summer it was the pinky injury and inconsistent play during camp. It’s easy to forget that Richardson only has 15 starts to his name in the NFL, while Jones has 70. We know what Daniel Jones is at this level through that many starts.

Richardson came into the league raw, and needed help with some of his technique and becoming a better thrower of the ball. There’s nothing wrong with that, plenty have come in that way like Josh Allen and Drake Maye. 15 starts is nowhere near enough time for some of these players to develop at the speed that you want them to, development is different for each individual player. The missed time due to injury has certainly gotten in the way of that. If anything, starting Jones for now should give the Colts some additional time to bring along their Richardson without any of the pressure attached.

I’m of the belief that none of these statements from either team will matter. All of the guys on both teams will get a few starts as both organizations will be selecting high once again come April. Hopefully they’re scouting department finds someone they like once college football kicks off here within the next few weeks.

Keith, Author

Keith runs youth flag football leagues by day, and by night he hosts the podcast and writes articles with the confidence of a man who’s been rushing quarterbacks since dial-up. A longtime flag football DE and lifelong Falcons fan, he’s no stranger to heartbreak and enjoys watching the bears get slaughtered each week. Equal parts coach, critic, and chaos, Keith calls it like he sees it… even if it hurts.