Quarterback Joe Flacco hasn’t entered a season as the team’s starter since 2019, but still believes he has the ability to lead a team in the NFL. The 37-year-old is currently the New York Jets’ backup and mentors quarterback Zach Wilson, a role he says he takes seriously.
Despite believing he can be a starting quarterback, Flacco isn’t harboring any bitterness over the leadership position he’s in now. The veteran is with the Jets to help take second-year QB Wilson to the next level, a job he is enjoying.
“That’s my role, and I embrace it. It keeps you busy, it keeps you part of the team. I’m not only willing to do it, I’m excited to do it,” Flacco said. , Via the New York Post.
Flacco is unlikely to get the starting job and is likely to remain in a mentorship role until Wilson gets injured.
If the situation presents itself to start, Flacco backs his talent and others around the league back it up. Jets Coach Robert Saleh called Flacco “really, really talented.” And told the media that he should be a starter in the league.
“He can start in this league, I’m sure. Sometimes there’s a tendency in this league to pigeonhole people or label people, and then their opportunities are limited, but Joe Flacco is a player in this league. is the starting quarterback,” Saleh said.
Flacco appreciated the praise and said it boosted his work ethic.
“I still think I have the ability to start,” Flacco said. “It’s nice to hear people say that – especially those who are close to the situation. [Saleh]. I believe I’m still good enough to be the starting quarterback. That’s what drives me to still work hard and be the best.”
Flacco started just one game in 2021, where he threw for 291 yards and two touchdowns in a 24–17 loss to the Miami Dolphins.
Flacco was selected no. 18 in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens and has since been employed by the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles. This is his second stint with the Jets.
He helped lead the Ravens to a victory over the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII, earning MVP honors. He certainly has experience helping a younger quarterback, starting 191 games, playing in 15 postseason games and winning 10 and playing against some elite defenses during his long career.
