Joe Flacco, the 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, has officially joined the Indianapolis Colts on a one-year contract valued at up to $8.7 million, with $4.5 million guaranteed. This signing marks a significant moment for the Colts, who have brought in the 39-year-old veteran to serve primarily as a backup and mentor to their young, promising quarterback, Anthony Richardson.
Flacco’s journey to Indianapolis comes after a remarkable resurgence last season with the Cleveland Browns. After starting the year without a team, Flacco was signed by the Browns late in the season and immediately made an impact. He led the Browns to a playoff berth, throwing for over 1,600 yards and 13 touchdowns in just six games. His performance earned him the Comeback Player of the Year award, yet the Browns opted not to retain him, choosing instead to sign Jameis Winston as their starting quarterback [[❞]](https://www.nfl.com/news/colts-agree-to-terms-with-qb-joe-flacco-on-one-year-contract-for-8-7m) [[❞]](https://www.profootballnetwork.com/joe-flacco-contract-details-nfl-2024/).
The Colts’ decision to sign Flacco underscores the importance of having a reliable veteran presence behind Richardson, who struggled with injuries during his rookie season. Flacco brings a wealth of experience, including a Super Bowl MVP title, and is expected to play a critical role in Richardson’s development. The Colts hope that Flacco will not have to take the field often, but his contract includes incentives that could push its value higher if he does see significant playing time.
For Indianapolis, the addition of Flacco is about more than just depth; it’s about stability and mentorship for a team that has struggled to find consistent success at the quarterback position since the retirement of Andrew Luck. Flacco’s presence should provide the Colts with a sense of security, knowing they have a proven leader ready to step in if necessary [[❞]](https://www.nfl.com/news/colts-agree-to-terms-with-qb-joe-flacco-on-one-year-contract-for-8-7m) [[❞]](https://www.profootballnetwork.com/joe-flacco-contract-details-nfl-2024/).
