On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers watched their AFC North rivals make headlines when the Cleveland Browns traded veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for a fifth-round pick. On paper, it might look like a routine depth move, but for those who follow this division closely, it’s much more than that.
It’s a statement — and, in my opinion, a head-scratching one for both sides.
Let’s start with the Browns. Trading away Joe Flacco says a lot about where they believe their franchise is headed. Sure, Cleveland has had its fair share of quarterback drama over the years, but this one feels symbolic.