The Joe Flacco trade has sparked strong reactions from Shedeur and Deion Sanders, shedding light on the shifting dynamics within the Browns' quarterback lineup and beyond. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Flacco's departure opens opportunities, it also exposes the Browns’ precarious QB situation and raises questions about player development and loyalty in the NFL.
On Tuesday, the Browns traded seasoned quarterback Joe Flacco, now 40, to the Cincinnati Bengals along with a 2026 sixth-round draft pick. In return, Cleveland received a 2026 fifth-round pick. This strategic move likely propels Shedeur Sanders to the role of backup quarterback behind rookie Dillon Gabriel for Sunday’s upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Flacco is expected to start for the Bengals against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, stepping in for Jake Browning, who’s struggled with three consecutive losses and eight interceptions over four starts—including a tough game against the Detroit Lions last Sunday.
This trade means Deion Sanders’ son, Shedeur, initially the Browns’ third-string quarterback, could now step into a more prominent backup role. Up until now, he has only served as the emergency third quarterback during the first five games of the season. The Browns may also consider promoting Bailey Zappe from the practice squad to serve as a backup. Zappe, known for his 4-5 career record, notably started in the Browns’ 35-10 loss to the Ravens at the end of the 2024 season.
When asked about the trade, Shedeur Sanders expressed gratitude toward Flacco, acknowledging how much Flacco contributed to his growth during their time together at Cleveland.
"Flacco being traded, he was definitely someone I looked up to for guidance," Shedeur told Fox8 News during a Tuesday appearance at a car dealership. "He helped me so much during my time here in Cleveland, just like his own tenure. Now, everyone has their own path and plans in life. I’m genuinely happy for him."
Shedeur also shared his surprise at how fast things moved after Flacco was benched, just six days prior. "I saw him after hearing about the trade. I was like, ‘Wow, that happened fast.’ It’s wild."
The bond between Flacco and Sanders grew throughout the offseason and training camp, with Sanders even trying to convince the veteran to perform the “schmoney” dance on the field—though to no avail. "Joe’s the old guy in the room," Shedeur joked. "We share a lot of laughs and jokes every day. You might catch some of it when they’re mic’d up. But after the fun, it’s all about refocusing and sharpening our minds. That’s how we stay ready."
Meanwhile, Deion Sanders, now head coach at Colorado, was less concerned about Flacco’s trade when confronted by reporters during a press conference. "Honestly, I don’t care," Deion said bluntly. "I couldn’t care less about the Browns. I care deeply about the Colorado Buffaloes and, of course, Shedeur. Everything else is irrelevant to me. I’m focused on coaching and winning games, just like all teams. Who they trade doesn’t sway me."
In a recent appearance on the Kelce Brothers’ “New Heights” podcast, Deion openly criticized the NFL’s approach to player development.
"I’ve never learned anything sitting on the bench," he remarked. "Who really gains experience just watching? That’s not how you grow."
Deion’s advice to his son Shedeur, whom he has coached from Pop Warner through Colorado, is one of patience paired with readiness.
"I told him, ‘Don’t rush anything. Be patient, but when your moment arrives, you better be ready. The Sanders family isn’t built to just show up unprepared. We stay ready all the time. I’ve got a feeling your opportunity is on the horizon. I’m not spilling when, but it’s coming—mark my words.’"
On a personal note, Deion also opened up about his ongoing health battles. He revealed he’s about to undergo another procedure—an aspiration thrombectomy—to remove blood clots from arteries in his leg.
"I’ll be fine," he reassured. "I don’t miss practice and definitely don’t plan to start now as the Buffaloes prepare for Saturday’s game against Iowa State."
Deion’s fight with blood clots has been lengthy and serious, beginning in 2021 at Jackson State, resulting in the amputation of two toes. He also underwent clot removal surgeries in 2023 and dealt with other complications in his left foot. Additionally, he battled bladder cancer, requiring reconstructive surgery using a portion of his intestine for a new bladder. Remarkably, he kept these struggles private from his sons Shedeur and Shilo while they prepared for their NFL careers.
"I put my trust fully in God," Deion said. "I’ll face surgery head-on and then get some solid rest afterwards. I’ve lived a clean life—no drugs, no alcohol. When it’s time for surgery, I’m always punctual and ready."
While Deion’s focus is squarely on coaching Colorado and managing his health, the Browns’ quarterback room is in flux, leaving fans and analysts to wonder: Can Shedeur capitalize on this unexpected chance? Or is the Browns’ quarterback situation symptomatic of a deeper organizational challenge? And what does this say about how teams truly develop their young players?
What do you think? Is this trade a smart move for the Browns, or does it highlight bigger issues? Share your thoughts below—you might just spark the next great debate on NFL quarterback development and loyalty.
