Breaking the Bank to Keep Myles Garrett
Three years ago, the Cleveland Browns made a significant financial and strategic commitment to secure Deshaun Watson, signing him to a lucrative deal that included a staggering $230 million fully guaranteed. On Sunday, they doubled down on their investment philosophy by breaking the bank once again to keep Myles Garrett, one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers, in their fold. This decision underscores the Browns’ determination to build a formidable defense, but it also puts a spotlight on the pressing question: what will the Browns do for a quarterback now that Watson is sidelined for the upcoming season?
The QB Conundrum
Despite Watson being under contract through 2025 and potentially 2026, his absence this year leaves a significant void on the Browns’ roster. The need for a capable quarterback is immediate and real. The Browns have several avenues to explore, including free agency, the draft, and trades. Each option comes with its own set of risks and rewards, but the team must act swiftly to ensure they have a reliable leader under center for the 2024 season. The stakes are high, and the decisions they make will shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
Joe Flacco: A Familiar Face
One of the most intriguing possibilities on the Browns’ radar is the return of Joe Flacco. Flacco joined the team during the 2023 season, helping to fuel a playoff run and earning Comeback Player of the Year honors. However, it was clear that his presence would not sit well with the fan base, especially as Watson’s struggles continued. To avoid division, the Browns did not extend Flacco a contract for 2024. Now, with Watson out, the Browns could re-sign Flacco and elevate him to QB1. At 40 years old, Flacco is certainly past his prime, but his experience and recent success suggest he could still be a valuable asset. Moreover, given the Browns’ cap constraints, Flacco represents a relatively low-cost option that could provide stability while the team searches for a long-term solution.
Cost and Viability
Cost is a crucial factor in the Browns’ quarterback search. Many of the available options come with hefty price tags that the Browns may not be able to afford, especially with the significant financial commitments they have already made. This is why they might be inclined to opt for a lower-rent rental for the coming season. The idea is to find a quarterback who can manage the team without breaking the bank, allowing the Browns to maintain financial flexibility for the future. However, the lack of a clear, affordable superstar makes the decision more challenging.
Carson Wentz: A Surprising but Viable Option
Earlier today, rumors emerged that Carson Wentz could be emerging as a frontrunner for the Browns’ quarterback position. Nine years after the Browns traded away the second overall pick in the draft to the Philadelphia Eagles, they could potentially bring Wentz aboard at a bargain-basement rate. Wentz, while not without his own set of issues, has shown flashes of potential and could provide a solid stopgap solution. The Browns could also pair Wentz with a rookie quarterback, particularly given that they hold the second overall pick in the draft again. While Cam Ward might be a long shot at the top of the draft, trading up one spot to secure him is not an unreasonable proposition. This strategy could offer the Browns a bridge to the future while they develop their young talent.
Long-Term Planning and the 2024 Draft
The Browns’ quarterback situation is far from ideal, but they have the advantage of holding a high draft pick. The 2024 draft class is rich with quarterback talent, and the Browns could use their second overall pick to select a promising young signal-caller. If they do decide to trade up for Cam Ward, it could signal a commitment to building a stronger foundation at the position. The key will be finding the right balance between immediate needs and long-term goals. The Browns need a quarterback who can perform in the short term without hindering their future prospects.
The Bigger Picture: Rebuilding and Financial Prudence
The Browns’ quarterback quest reflects the broader challenges they face in rebuilding their franchise. The watson deal, while ambitious, has proven to be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it demonstrated the team’s willingness to make bold moves to secure elite talent. On the other hand, the financial and cap implications have created a tightrope for the Browns to walk. They must navigate these constraints carefully to avoid further complications. The focus now is on finding a cost-effective and capable quarterback who can lead the team through the 2024 season, while also laying the groundwork for a sustainable and successful future. The coming weeks and months will be critical as the Browns aim to mend the fracture they created in 2022 and chart a new course for the franchise.
