Former Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco has been renowned for his Super Bowl MVP title in 2012. He has navigated through various NFL teams since Lamar Jackson’s ascension in 2018. From the Denver Broncos to the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Cleveland Browns, the signal-caller’s journey has been marked by shifts and adjustments.
Flacco now inked a deal with the Indianapolis Colts after hitting free agency. He aims to impart his seasoned wisdom and experience to the Colts’ emerging quarterback, Anthony Richardson.
Joe Flacco plans to help Colts QB Anthony Richardson
Joe Flacco is stepping into a new role with the Colts, and it is not just about his performance on the field. As he joins the Colts as a quarterback, Flacco is aiming to provide mentorship and support to Anthony Richardson.
The signal-caller mentioned the importance of playing with speed and simplicity. He believes that by simplifying the game for Richardson and helping him play to his strengths, they can unlock his full potential on the field.
“Play fast because they’re either naturally doing it or they’re just kind of simplifying it to the point that they’re not worrying about every tiny little thing,” Flacco said.
Flacco’s approach goes beyond the Xs and Os of football. He aims to guide Richardson through the challenges and intricacies of the game.
“It’s about being in the room with him, a lot of conversations naturally come up when you spend so much time together. Being able to bring the experience and help him simplify things, go out there, play fast and use his skill set the way he wants to.”
Richardson has shown glimpses of his potential but is still relatively inexperienced at the professional level. With just 173 snaps under his belt, there is still much for him to learn and adapt to in the NFL. The team’s general manager Chris Ballard earlier acknowledged that there will be growing pains for Richardson, especially coming off a season-ending surgery.
However, with Flacco’s arrival, the Colts gained more than just a backup quarterback. They acquire a seasoned veteran who can serve as a mentor and role model for Richardson.
Details on Joe Flacco’s Colts contract
Joe Flacco has inked a lucrative one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts, worth a maximum of $8.7 million. The agreement was finalized last week, and he officially joined the Colts’ roster on Friday.
The veteran’s decision to join the Colts was influenced by his prior connection with some members of the coaching staff, notably head coach Shane Steichen and passing game coordinator Alex Tanney. He had worked with them during his time on the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad. Additionally, the fact that the Colts’ offensive coordinator, Jim Bob Cooter, had previously worked with the Eagles in 2021 further eased Flacco’s transition to the Colts.
The 2023 season showcased Flacco’s enduring passion when he stepped in as the QB1 for the Cleveland Browns following Deshaun Watson’s season-ending injury. Flacco’s leadership guided the Browns to an unexpected playoff berth, earning him the prestigious title of Comeback Player of the Year.
The QB amassed impressive statistics, recording 1,616 passing yards and 13 touchdowns, ultimately securing a 4-1 record for the team. His instrumental role propelled the Browns to an 11-6 finish. The veteran will not assume the starter position for the Colts, but his invaluable experience and veteran leadership are surely poised to elevate the team’s quarterback room.
