Joe Flacco Limited in Practice with Shoulder Injury, Reflecting a Career of Veteran Backup Roles

Joe Flacco (shoulder) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. The veteran quarterback signed a one-year, $4.5 million guaranteed deal with the Indianapolis Colts in March to back up Anthony Richardson, a role he's embraced throughout his later career. Last year, Flacco joined the Browns in mid-November, becoming their starter by December and leading them to the playoffs, earning Comeback Player of the Year honors. At 39, he still possesses a strong arm, demonstrated by a 9.3 air yards per attempt (2nd) and 7.9 YPA (6th) last season, despite a 67.6% on-target rate. His career has seen him serve as a backup for multiple teams including the Jets, Broncos, and Eagles, often mentoring younger quarterbacks. While he led the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2012, his post-Baltimore career has been characterized by a medium floor and low ceiling, with efficiency struggles and a reliance on volume in some seasons.