Tomlin Questions Browns’ flacco Trade to Bengals
The recent trade sending veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns to the Cincinnati Bengals has raised eyebrows across the NFL. It’s a rare intra-division move that even surprised Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin.
Tomlin addressed the trade during a Monday press conference following his team’s 23-9 victory over the Browns. He openly questioned the logic behind bolstering a divisional rival with a player who had previously been Cleveland’s starting quarterback.
“To be honest, it was shocking to me,” Tomlin stated. “Andrew Berry must be a lot smarter than me, because it doesn’t make sense to trade a quarterback you think enough of to start, to a division opponent that needs one.”
Cleveland initially turned to Flacco after injuries to Deshaun Watson.However, the team ultimately decided to give the reins to rookie Dillon Gabriel. Gabriel’s first start came in Week 5 against the Minnesota Vikings.
Despite completing 19 of 33 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns, Gabriel couldn’t lead the Browns to victory, falling 21-17. His performance against the Steelers on Sunday was more challenging.
Gabriel faced significant pressure, attempting a staggering 52 passes. He completed 29 for 221 yards, averaging just 4.3 yards per attempt, and was sacked six times.
The Browns’ decision to trade Flacco,despite his recent role,signals a clear commitment to evaluating Gabriel’s development. It also introduces a potentially perilous element for Cleveland – a familiar opponent now armed with a seasoned quarterback.
Now,all eyes will be on Flacco as he joins the Bengals. You can expect a tough test in his debut against the Pittsburgh defense later this week. It will be captivating to see how he integrates into Cincinnati’s offense and whether he can provide the spark the Bengals need.
