Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has expressed confusion over the Cleveland Browns’ recent decision to trade quarterback Joe Flacco to their division rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals. The move has raised eyebrows across the league, as Tomlin questioned the logic of strengthening a competitor while struggling with their own quarterback situation.
With the Browns sitting at 1-5, Tomlin’s comments highlight the perplexity surrounding the trade. Flacco, once a seasoned starter for the Browns, was dealt to the Bengals for a fifth-round pick, leaving many to wonder why Cleveland would part ways with a player they deemed valuable enough to start.
Oct 12, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin before the game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Tomlin noted that this decision could have significant repercussions, particularly since Pittsburgh will face Flacco in the upcoming game. His frustration centers around the notion that the Browns seemingly helped a division foe instead of finding a more beneficial solution.
Pittsburgh has their own challenges, currently riding a three-game winning streak and holding a strong position in the AFC North. However, Tomlin’s concerns reflect broader issues within the Browns’ organization, particularly regarding their offensive strategy and quarterback depth. The trade not only affects the immediate landscape of the division but also raises questions about the Browns’ long-term planning.
Cleveland’s decision to move Flacco comes as they continue to develop rookie Dillon Gabriel as their starting quarterback. Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders, drafted in the fifth round, remains on the bench, leading to speculation about his future with the team. The dynamics within the Browns’ quarterback room are further complicated by injuries and inconsistent performances.
Pittsburgh Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin Confused by Cleveland Browns Trading Joe Flacco
Sep 28, 2025; Dublin, Ireland; Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin leaves the field after an NFL International Series game against the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Just recently, Tomlin expressed his confusion about the Browns’ decision to trade Flacco away. This can be seen in a video shared by Ari Meirov on X.
Shots fired: #Steelers HC Mike Tomlin on Cleveland trading Joe Flacco to the Bengals:
“Andrew Berry must be a lot smarter than me or us because it doesn’t make sense to me to trade a QB you think enough of to make your opening-day starter to a division opponent that’s hurting in… pic.twitter.com/aQJKCxCUaJ
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 13, 2025
As the Steelers prepare to face the Bengals, Tomlin is keenly aware that Flacco’s experience poses a potential threat. His remarks reflect a recognition of the stakes involved, not just for their upcoming game but for the entire season. The Browns’ trade of Flacco could have far-reaching implications in the competitive AFC North.
Sep 26, 2025; Maynooth, Ireland; Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin at press conference at Carton House. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Tomlin’s bewilderment over the Browns’ decision to trade Flacco underscores the complexities of NFL team management. As the season unfolds, both the Steelers and Browns will need to navigate their respective challenges, and the implications of this trade may resonate throughout the remainder of the campaign.
Sep 14, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; NFL head coach Mike Tomlin takes the field for a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
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