In a jaw-dropping move that has taken the NFL community by surprise, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has officially signed a 4-year, $109 million contract with the Green Bay Packers, making him the team’s new starting quarterback for the 2025 season and beyond.
The deal, confirmed early Sunday morning by both the Packers front office and Flacco’s agent, represents one of the most unexpected quarterback shifts in recent NFL memory—especially given Flacco’s remarkable late-season resurgence with the Cleveland Browns in 2024.
A Stunning Turn of Events
Flacco, 40, stepped in late last season for the Browns amid injuries and uncertainty at the quarterback position—and promptly led the team to a playoff berth, reigniting his career in storybook fashion. Many assumed he would remain in Cleveland as a backup or mentor. Few imagined he’d be handed the reins of another franchise—let alone one as storied and tradition-rich as Green Bay.
“Joe proved last season that he’s still got it,” Packers GM Brian Gutekunst said in a statement. “His poise, leadership, and arm talent are exactly what this team needs as we enter a new era of Packers football.”
What Happened in Green Bay?
The decision comes amid internal shifts in Green Bay’s quarterback room, with Jordan Love‘s future suddenly in question. Love showed promise in recent seasons, but inconsistencies and contract negotiations reportedly created friction within the organization.
Now, with Flacco stepping in, the Packers are signaling a win-now mentality.
Joe Flacco Speaks Out
In a video posted to the Packers’ official social media pages, Flacco expressed his excitement and determination:
“It’s an incredible honor to join the Green Bay Packers,” Flacco said. “This is one of the most iconic franchises in all of sports. I’m ready to lead, compete, and bring everything I’ve got to this team and its fans.”
Fan Reaction: Shock and Split Opinions
Packers fans took to social media immediately with a flurry of reactions—some optimistic about Flacco’s experience and leadership, others skeptical of handing such a massive deal to a 40-year-old QB.
@GoPackGo_88 tweeted:
“Flacco? Really? He balled out in Cleveland, sure, but FOUR YEARS? Gonna need to see how this plays out.”
Meanwhile, @CheeseheadFaithful posted:
“Veteran presence, Super Bowl champ, ice in his veins. Let’s ride. #InGutekunstWeTrust”
Contract Details
The deal includes $65 million guaranteed and incentives tied to playoff appearances and performance metrics. While the average annual salary may raise eyebrows, the contract reportedly has team-friendly exit options after two seasons.
What This Means for the Packers
The signing of Joe Flacco signals a dramatic philosophical shift in Green Bay—from developing young talent to relying on seasoned leadership to make a deep playoff push. It also throws the future of Jordan Love into uncertainty, with rumors swirling that a trade may now be on the table.
Head coach Matt LaFleur praised Flacco’s composure and presence in high-pressure games:
“He’s been there. He’s done it. And he’s still got that fire. That’s what we need in that locker room right now,” LaFleur said.
Looking Ahead
With training camp just weeks away, all eyes will be on Flacco as he dons the green and gold for the first time. Can the former Super Bowl MVP channel one more championship run with a new team and a new chapter?
One thing is certain: Joe Flacco is a Packer, and Green Bay’s future just got a whole lot more interesting.