Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco struggled significantly during the team’s 34-10 loss to the Detroit Lions on September 24, 2025. Flacco’s performance raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Browns’ offense, which managed only one touchdown and averaged a mere 3.8 yards per play. This outcome has left the team at a critical juncture regarding its quarterback situation.
Flacco completed 16 of 34 passes for 184 yards, tossing two interceptions without scoring a touchdown. While his struggles were evident, they cannot solely be blamed on him. The Browns’ offensive line, already a concern at the start of the season, has faced additional challenges. Tackle Dawand Jones was lost for the season last week, and right tackle Jack Conklin has played only 20 snaps in the first four games due to an elbow injury. Consequently, Flacco entered the game ranked second in the league for hits taken, suffering nine more during the match against the Lions, including three sacks.
The two interceptions also reflected miscommunication on the field. The first interception occurred when Flacco misconnected with receiver Cedric Tillman, who appeared to run a different route than expected. The second interception was facilitated by receiver Jerry Jeudy, who fell during his route, allowing cornerback D.J. Reed to return the ball 34 yards, placing the Lions in a favorable scoring position.
Browns coach Kevin Stefanski opted not to replace Flacco until the late stages of the game, despite the mounting pressure from fans for a change. Normally, a faltering offense would prompt a coaching switch, especially when the team is underperforming. However, the situation is complicated by the lack of experience on the bench. Third-round draft pick Dillon Gabriel, a rookie, has yet to take a snap in a regular-season game, raising questions about whether he could handle the pressure of stepping in at this critical time.
The debate about Gabriel’s potential has intensified among fans, especially as the Browns continue to struggle, holding a record of 1-3 after four weeks of play. While Gabriel possesses speed and agility, he is also undersized at 5-foot-11 and 205 pounds, which raises concerns about his durability against a strong defensive line. The Lions demonstrated their defensive prowess last week, having sacked Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson seven times, indicating that Gabriel could face significant challenges if thrust into the starting role prematurely.
Upcoming games present further difficulties for the Browns. They will face the Vikings in London, a team that is currently tied for sixth in the league for sacks per game. Following that, Cleveland will travel to Pittsburgh, where the Steelers boast two Pro Bowl rushers. The prospect of introducing a rookie quarterback against such formidable opponents may not be ideal for the Browns, who are focused on long-term success rather than immediate fixes.
Cleveland’s leadership must weigh the potential benefits of allowing Gabriel to gain experience against the risk of damaging his confidence and health. As the team continues to seek solutions for its offensive struggles, two paths emerge: continuing with Flacco, a veteran quarterback with diminishing returns, or transitioning to Gabriel, who lacks the necessary experience and support to thrive in the current environment.
The Browns are at a critical crossroads with their quarterback strategy. The decisions made in the coming weeks could significantly impact the team’s future, with the fan base growing increasingly impatient for a change. As Cleveland navigates this complex situation, the choices ahead will determine the trajectory of the season and the long-term direction of the franchise.
