Joe Flacco considered returning to the Ravens as a backup quarterback, but the team ultimately signed Cooper Rush instead.

Joe Flacco, a name that is synonymous with success and resilience in Baltimore Ravens history, was recently linked to a potential return to his former team during the 2025 NFL offseason. After a long and illustrious career in the NFL, including a Super Bowl MVP performance, Flacco’s connection to the Ravens is undeniable. However, the situation surrounding his return and the Ravens’ decision-making process sheds light on both the team’s current quarterback situation and Flacco’s evolving role in the league.

Flacco’s Legacy with the Baltimore Ravens

Joe Flacco is arguably one of the most important figures in Baltimore Ravens history. Drafted by the Ravens in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, Flacco would go on to guide the team to numerous playoff appearances and, most notably, a Super Bowl victory in 2012. His performance in Super Bowl XLVII, where he was named MVP, solidified his place in franchise lore.

Flacco’s strong arm, cool-headed demeanor, and ability to perform in clutch moments earned him the nickname “Joe Cool” among Ravens fans. Over his 11 seasons in Baltimore, Flacco became the franchise’s all-time leader in several key statistical categories, including passing yards, passing touchdowns, and game-winning drives.

Despite a successful career in Baltimore, Flacco’s time with the Ravens came to an end after the 2018 season when he was traded to the Denver Broncos in favor of a new era under quarterback Lamar Jackson. Since then, Flacco has bounced between teams, including a brief stint with the New York Jets and, most recently, the Philadelphia Eagles. While he has not been a starting quarterback in recent years, Flacco’s experience and ability to mentor young quarterbacks have kept him relevant in the NFL.

The Ravens’ Quarterback Situation in 2025

When the 2025 NFL offseason rolled around, the Ravens found themselves in an interesting position with their quarterback situation. Lamar Jackson, the team’s star quarterback, has had an up-and-down career filled with explosive performances and injuries. Jackson’s dual-threat ability has made him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league, but his struggles with injuries have raised concerns about his long-term durability and availability.

With Jackson’s contract situation and future with the Ravens still somewhat uncertain, the team needed to ensure that they had a reliable backup option in place. While Jackson has proven to be an elite talent, his injury history makes it imperative for the Ravens to have a backup that can step in and contribute should the need arise.

Joe Flacco’s Interest in Returning to Baltimore

As rumors about Flacco potentially returning to the Ravens began circulating, it became clear that the veteran quarterback still had a strong connection to his former team. According to reports, Flacco and the Ravens engaged in discussions about the possibility of bringing him back as a backup quarterback. This idea, while seemingly far-fetched to some, made sense when considering Flacco’s familiarity with the team, his leadership experience, and his ability to step in and perform in an emergency situation.

Flacco’s interest in returning to Baltimore was not just about reuniting with the franchise he helped lead to a Super Bowl title, but also about continuing his career in a meaningful way. At this stage of his career, Flacco is likely not looking for a starting role, but rather an opportunity to contribute in a mentor capacity and as a reliable backup in case Jackson were to miss time. The Ravens’ front office, led by General Manager Eric DeCosta, reportedly recognized the value of having Flacco’s experience on the roster, especially given his intimate knowledge of the Ravens’ system and his potential to help mentor younger quarterbacks.

In an interview, Flacco expressed excitement about the potential for a return to Baltimore, stating that it would be “a dream come true” to rejoin the team that made him a household name in the NFL. “The Ravens have always held a special place in my heart,” Flacco said. “I would love nothing more than to come back and help the team, especially Lamar. I’ve seen the growth he’s made, and I’d love to be there for him as a resource.”

Flacco’s humility and willingness to take on a backup role speak volumes about his commitment to the game and his understanding of the importance of mentoring the next generation of quarterbacks. His leadership and knowledge could have been invaluable to Jackson, who is still developing as a passer and dealing with the pressures that come with being a franchise quarterback.

The Ravens’ Decision to Sign Cooper Rush

Despite Flacco’s interest and the potential benefits of bringing him back, the Ravens ultimately decided to go in a different direction. Instead of re-signing Flacco, the team opted to bring in Cooper Rush, a veteran quarterback known for his time with the Dallas Cowboys. Rush had spent several seasons as a backup for Dak Prescott and had earned a reputation for being a reliable option when called upon in relief.

Rush’s experience as a backup quarterback made him a strong candidate for the role in Baltimore, especially given his familiarity with the NFL system and his ability to handle the pressure of a backup role. Although Rush has not been a starter in the league, he had proven himself capable of stepping in and performing at a high level when needed.

For the Ravens, the decision to sign Rush likely came down to a few key factors. First, the Ravens needed a quarterback who could fit within the team’s system and contribute when called upon, but also someone who was not necessarily focused on pushing for a starting job. Cooper Rush, known for his professionalism and preparedness, fit that mold. Additionally, Rush was likely more affordable and easier to sign than a veteran like Flacco, who might have been seeking more money or a larger role.

Rush’s signing also fits with the Ravens’ desire to develop their young quarterbacks, as they continue to focus on building around Lamar Jackson and creating a sustainable offense. While Flacco’s experience and mentorship would have been beneficial, the team likely felt that it was better to go with a quarterback like Rush, who could fill the backup role without overshadowing Jackson or creating a potential distraction.

Flacco’s Continued Career Path

Following the Ravens’ decision to sign Rush, Joe Flacco was not left without options. He went on to sign a one-year, $4 million deal with the Cleveland Browns, a team that was also in need of quarterback depth. Flacco’s move to Cleveland gives him another opportunity to continue his career and potentially contribute to a team that is in the midst of its own quarterback transition.

While Flacco is no longer the starting quarterback he once was, his ability to adapt to different roles and his willingness to be a mentor to younger quarterbacks have allowed him to remain relevant in the NFL. In Cleveland, Flacco will join a quarterback room that includes Deshaun Watson, another high-profile, but injury-prone quarterback, which could provide Flacco with another chance to step in if needed.

In signing with the Browns, Flacco also has an opportunity to pursue a second Super Bowl title, something that has continued to motivate him throughout his career. Although the likelihood of Flacco returning to his Super Bowl-winning form is slim, his experience and leadership could still be valuable assets to a Browns team looking to build a more stable quarterback situation.

Looking Ahead: The Ravens’ Future at Quarterback

As the Ravens look to the future, it is clear that Lamar Jackson is their franchise quarterback. However, the team must continue to build depth at the position to ensure that they have a reliable backup plan in place. The decision to go with Cooper Rush over Joe Flacco is a strategic one, allowing the Ravens to maintain flexibility while still having a competent backup quarterback on the roster.

For Flacco, while a return to the Ravens did not materialize, his career is far from over. His role may have shifted from starter to mentor, but he remains an important figure in the NFL. As Flacco continues his career with the Browns, his influence will undoubtedly be felt by younger quarterbacks, including Lamar Jackson, who will continue to learn from Flacco’s experiences and leadership.

In the end, while Flacco’s time with the Ravens may have come to an end, his impact on the team and the NFL as a whole will not be forgotten. And for Ravens fans, his potential return will always remain a “what if” scenario—a reminder of the quarterback who helped lead them to their second Super Bowl title and became a legend in the process.  Joe Flacco’s consideration of a return to the Ravens was an intriguing development in the 2025 NFL offseason. While his legacy with the team is secure, his willingness to return in a backup role and offer mentorship to Lamar Jackson speaks to his love for the game and his understanding of his place in the league. The Ravens’ decision to sign Cooper Rush instead of Flacco represents their current direction—one focused on developing their star quarterback and maintaining depth without distractions.

For Flacco, his journey is far from over. The next chapter with the Cleveland Browns offers him another chance to contribute to a team in need of experience and leadership. As the NFL continues to evolve, so too does Joe Flacco’s role, and his future in the league remains full of possibilities, whether as a backup or in a mentoring capacity.