The expectation in Cleveland is that quarterback Joe Flacco is “almost definitely” leaving the Browns. This is according to The Athletic’s Zac Jackson. Should Flacco actually leave Cleveland, it would be a huge mistake by the Browns.

Let’s get something out of the way first. Flacco is not better than Deshaun Watson. At least, that cannot be definitively said at this moment in time. But there is something to be said about the difference in overall effectiveness last season between Watson and the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year. Cleveland’s passing game was a disaster with Watson that only got worse when they were forced to turn to PJ Walker and Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Flacco was able to provide a much-needed jolt to the Browns’ passing game that was non-existent prior to his arrival.

Was Flacco perfect? No. In fact, he was far from it. Flacco threw 10 interceptions (postseason included) and was a primary reason for the Browns being blown out in Houston in the Wild Card round. However, Flacco’s play was one of the better stretches of quarterback play in Cleveland in quite some time. While that bar is not very high, it is still noteworthy. Particularly when taking into consideration the overall poor play of Watson and the up-and-down nature of the now-departed Baker Mayfield.

What this all comes down to is having a competent backup if needed. Cleveland clearly needed that option last season, and it eventually paid off once Flacco was signed. Repeating their actions this time around would be a mistake of epic proportions they cannot afford to make.