What's Happening?
Joe Flacco, the veteran quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, is not expected to participate in the upcoming preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite taking the majority of first-team reps during practice, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski has not officially named a starting quarterback for Week 1. However, indications suggest that Flacco will be the starting quarterback against the Bengals in Week 1. During the joint practices with Philadelphia, Flacco will continue to handle first-team reps, while rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel are expected to split game reps on Saturday. Additionally, Kenny Pickett is limited to 7-on-7 drills due to a hamstring issue.
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Why It's Important?
The decision to rest Joe Flacco in the preseason game could be strategic, allowing him to focus on preparations for the regular season opener against the Bengals. Flacco's experience and leadership are crucial for the Browns, especially as they navigate quarterback uncertainties. The development also highlights the team's approach to managing player health and readiness, particularly for veteran players. The involvement of rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel in game reps suggests the Browns are evaluating their depth and future potential at the quarterback position.
What's Next?
As the Browns continue their preseason preparations, the focus will likely shift to finalizing the starting lineup for Week 1. Coach Kevin Stefanski's decision on the starting quarterback will be closely watched, as it could impact the team's strategy and performance in the regular season. The joint practices with the Eagles provide an opportunity for the team to assess player readiness and make necessary adjustments. The health and performance of key players like Kenny Pickett will also be monitored, as his recovery from a hamstring issue could influence his availability for future games.
