Veteran quarterbacks rarely shy away from confidence, but few express it as bluntly as Joe Flacco did recently. The Super Bowl-winning quarterback still believes he has a lot to offer after nearly two decades in the NFL, and he isn't afraid to challenge the teams that have overlooked him.
In recent years, Flacco's career has largely been that of an emergency backup quarterback. Teams have often signed him during times of urgency. While he played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2008 to 2018, the Pro Bowl quarterback has since suited up for six different teams. The Cincinnati Bengals decided to re-sign Flacco after trading for him last season to replace the injured Joe Burrow.
During his return press conference with the team, Flacco didn't hold back when asked about this year's quarterback market and why he was not considered for a starting role. "I wish I was a guy somewhere," he said. The Bengals QB then added how teams are 'dumb' for their decision to not sign him.
"And I think teams are dumb for not having me be that guy. I feel like I have unfinished business," he said. Flacco continued by admitting that the situation "pissed him off," but he also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play with the Bengals. "I feel like I can help the team win. And yeah, it may be in a different role here, but I do still think I can help the team win in that role."
The remark reflects the reality Flacco has faced over the past few seasons. The veteran quarterback, once the face of the Ravens and the MVP of Super Bowl XLVII, has spent the latter part of his career moving between teams in search of another opportunity.
The Bengals turned to Flacco during a time of need and have continued to show trust in the 41-year-old quarterback. While he may not be the long-term starter, the veteran clearly believes he could still handle that responsibility if given the chance. And judging by his candid remarks, Flacco hasn't lost the competitive edge that helped define his career.
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