Joe Flacco Named Browns QB1 Despite Shedeur Sanders Buzz

The Cleveland Browns have made their quarterback decision official. On Monday, the team announced that veteran Joe Flacco will start Week 1 against Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Many expected this to be one of the most exciting quarterback battles of the offseason, but according to NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo, Flacco was never seriously pushed by Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, Kenny Pickett, or Tyler Huntley.

For bettors and fans alike, this clarity sets the tone for Cleveland’s season. Flacco’s steady hand brought the Browns to the playoffs last year, but with new young quarterbacks waiting in the wing

Why Flacco Was Always the Favorite

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Even before the preseason began, Flacco was viewed as the frontrunner. At 40 years old, he may not bring the same athleticism as the younger QBs, but his experience, leadership, and past success with Cleveland made him the safest option. Last season, Flacco earned Comeback Player of the Year after guiding the team to a 4-1 record as a starter.

For sports bettors, Flacco’s presence provides stability to the Browns’ offensive outlook. A veteran quarterback typically reduces volatility in game lines compared to a rookie-led offense.

Photo by Getty Images

Shedeur Sanders Showed Flashes of Star Power

While the competition wasn’t close, rookie Shedeur Sanders did turn heads in his debut. In Week 1 of the preseason against the Carolina Panthers, Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing poise, mobility, and the ability to handle pressure.

Unfortunately, an oblique injury kept him out of Week 2, halting his momentum. Still, his strong performance raised speculation that he could push Flacco later in the season if the veteran struggles.

Dillon Gabriel’s Steady, But Unspectacular Play

With Sanders sidelined, rookie Dillon Gabriel got his chance against the Philadelphia Eagles. He went 13 of 18 for 143 yards but threw a pick-six. While it wasn’t a breakout performance, Gabriel displayed efficiency and control, showing why Cleveland used a third-round pick on him.

For oddsmakers, Gabriel profiles as a reliable backup but not someone who would immediately swing betting lines if pressed into action.

What Happens to Cleveland’s QB Depth Chart?

The Browns now face roster decisions. With Flacco locked in, the big question is who will serve as his backup. Will it be Pickett, Gabriel, or Sanders? Could Cleveland keep four quarterbacks on the roster, or will they explore trades?

  • Kenny Pickett could be viewed as trade bait if another team is desperate.

  • Sanders, despite the injury, has shown enough upside that he would draw trade interest.

  • Gabriel looks like a system QB who could quietly develop as a long-term option.

Bettors should monitor these moves closely—QB depth directly affects season win totals and in-season odds if injuries strike.

Betting Outlook for the Browns in 2025

With Flacco at the helm, sportsbooks are likely to view Cleveland as a stable but not explosive offense. Expect:

  • Tighter spreads in divisional games against the Bengals, Ravens, and Steelers.

  • Lower point totals in matchups, given Flacco’s preference for controlled, short-passing drives.

  • Live betting opportunities if the Browns turn to a rookie midseason, creating swings in momentum.

For bettors, stability now doesn’t guarantee stability later. Keeping an eye on Flacco’s performance and the development of Sanders will be key to finding value in Browns games throughout the season.

Final Thoughts

Joe Flacco may have won the Browns’ QB job with little resistance, but the story doesn’t end here. Shedeur Sanders showed flashes, Dillon Gabriel looked steady, and roster decisions still hang in the balance. For now, Cleveland is betting on Flacco’s experience—but at age 40, how long will that bet pay off?

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