Donald Trump’s Joe Flacco assessment from 2015 resurfaces after Browns QB’s comeback run

From a sheer football perspective, Joe Flacco presents a compelling argument. At the age of 38, he faced the skepticism of NFL teams, who doubted his ability to continue playing at a professional level. However, Flacco has emphatically silenced the critics, as the Cleveland Browns have entrusted him as their starting quarterback for the remainder of the season.

With continuously showcasing excellence regardless of his age, Flacco’s outstanding performances have already etched his name in the pursuit of a coveted title, while an old video of Donald Trump let the NFL fans understand the starter’s greatness.

Donald Trump discussed Joe Flacco’s greatness

Joe Flacco, once dubbed a “very elite quarterback” by former President Trump in 2015, has made a triumphant return to the NFL spotlight. Trump’s endorsement, delivered via Twitter, now seems prophetic, as Flacco’s recent performances with the Cleveland Browns have been nothing short of elite.

“I think Joe Flacco is, actually, a very elite quarterback. He won a Super Bowl, he did it really, to a certain extent, with that great arm of his. I would say absolutely. He is an elite quarterback.”

Fast forward to 2023, and Joe Flacco, after a hiatus since the end of the last season, received an unexpected call from the Cleveland Browns in mid-November. This marked a turning point in Flacco’s career, as he joined the team following a season-ending injury to Deshaun Watson and lackluster performances from backups.

Despite being out of the game, Flacco proved his skill upon his return. He quickly established himself as a top-tier quarterback, displaying both strengths and areas for improvement. One notable characteristic was his occasional recklessness with the football, resulting in interceptions in each of his first five starts.

Nevertheless, Flacco’s statistics spoke volumes about his impact on the field. He threw for 300+ yards in four consecutive games, showcasing his enduring prowess. His ability to toss multiple touchdowns in every start and lead the Browns to four consecutive victories underscored his value.

Since making his first start for the Browns on December 3, Flacco has been on a remarkable streak. He boasts a 3-1 record while consistently throwing for 300 or more yards and multiple touchdowns in three straight games. Impressively, the quarterback currently leads the NFL in both passing yards (1,307) and touchdowns (10) since Week 13, per Yardbarker.

Joe Flacco is in the run for comeback Player of the Year

Joe Flacco went from being a veteran quarterback seeking a shot in his five weeks with the Cleveland Browns to being an icon of tenacity and resolve, guiding the team to its second postseason appearance in twenty-one years. With his exceptional performance, he is a strong contender for the NFL Comeback Player of the Year. However, the 38-year-old will face tough competition in a season filled with remarkable stories.

Flacco’s journey with the Browns began on November 20, and he swiftly ascended to the starting lineup, contributing significantly to crucial victories against Jacksonville and Chicago. By Week 15, his remarkable comeback had propelled him into the Comeback Player of the Year race at BetMGM, where he held odds at +1200, second only to Buffalo’s Damar Hamlin at -600.

What makes Flacco’s comeback particularly compelling is the adversity he overcame. After a challenging 2022 season and considering retirement following a series of concussions, Flacco emerged from the shadows to play at a near-MVP level. His impressive statistics include 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns in just five starts.

Despite facing tough competition, Flacco’s recent exceptional performances make a strong case for him to win the Comeback Player of the Year, which even garnered attention from NBA legend LeBron James. He was almost out of the NFL until a little more than a month ago, making his resurgence all the more remarkable.

Flacco’s tale is clearly one of the best of the NFL season, and his odds have reflected that. With a DraftKings rating of +100, he is on par with the favored Damar Hamlin at -150, showcasing the significance of his comeback in the league and his potential for winning the esteemed Comeback Player of the Year accolade.

Who do you think should win Comeback Player of the Year?