Current Team and Status
As of the 2024 season, Joe Flacco is the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos. He signed a one-year contract with the Broncos in March 2024 after leaving the Philadelphia Eagles, bringing veteran leadership to a young Denver roster.
Flacco entered the NFL as the first overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, where he won Super Bowl XLVII. He has also played for the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles. While his 2024 season performance has been mixed, he remains the Broncos’ Week 1 starter at quarterback. His contract includes incentives aligned with Denver’s playoff push.
Contract Overview and 2024 Details
Key Contract Terms
Flacco’s one-year deal with the Broncos in 2024 was structured to reward performance and roster contributions. The contract was designed to minimize risk for Denver while keeping an elite, game-manager quarterback in Flacco for a playoff run.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Team (2024) | Denver Broncos | Official roster, team announcements |
| Contract Type | One-year contract, 2024 | NFL Transactions, team reports |
| Previous Team (2023) | Philadelphia Eagles | Team transaction logs |
| Draft History | First overall pick, 2008 | NFL Draft records |
| Career Super Bowls | 1 (Super Bowl XLVII) | League and team records |
Recent Career Timeline
Flacco’s career path shows a journeyman trajectory across multiple franchises, with each stop offering different roles and expectations. From his early success in Baltimore to his more recent backups and starter designations, Flacco has consistently remained a veteran presence.
- 2008–2018: Baltimore Ravens — Started 136 games, led team to Super Bowl XLVII victory.
- 2019: New York Jets — Started 12 games, inconsistent performance led to midseason benching.
- 2020–2023: Philadelphia Eagles — Primarily a backup to Jalen Hurts, occasional spot starts.
- 2024: Denver Broncos — Signed in offseason, named Week 1 starter as part of Denver’s rebuild around quarterback competition.
Performance Snapshot with Denver
Flacco’s early 2024 season with Denver showed flashes of his experience but also highlighted the limitations of a 37-year-old quarterback in a rebuilding offense. His decision-making and short-area accuracy remain strengths, while arm speed and deep-ball consistency have declined.
| Metric | 2024 (Denver) | 2023 (Philadelphia) | 2022 (Baltimore) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TD–INT Ratio | 7–7 | 0–0 (no throws) | 12–10 |
| Passer Rating | 86.4 | — | 92.1 |
| Completion % | 66.1% | — | 67.3% |
| Weekly Starts | 1 (Week 1, currently active) | 0 | 10+ (season-long starter) |
What It Means to Be a Veteran Backup and Starter
In the NFL, the terms “backup” and “starter” carry different weights depending on the season, the team’s situation, and the quarterback’s age and contract. Flacco has spent recent years transitioning between these roles, often providing leadership and short-term stability.
Defining a Backup QB
A backup quarterback is typically third on the depth chart behind a clear starter and a secondary option. Responsibilities include holding scout team pads, practicing with first-team units, and being ready to enter the game in relief. Flacco filled this role in 2022 with Baltimore and part of 2023 with Philadelphia, allowing younger quarterbacks to develop while remaining ready.
Defining a Starter QB
A starter is the primary signal-caller for the team, responsible for preparing playbooks, managing in-game decisions, and leading the offense. Flacco reclaimed this role in 2024 with Denver after the team’s offseason quarterback competition and injuries to other options. His start in Week 1 signals trust from the coaching staff, even if the long-term plan remains in flux.
Team Context and Roster Fit
The Broncos in 2024 present a mix of youth and experience, with an evolving offensive scheme under new coordinators. Flacco’s presence offers continuity for the offense while Paxton Lynch and other young players develop. His familiarity with complex protections and pre-snap adjustments can accelerate the growth of a young receiving corps and offensive line.
Denver’s decision to go with Flacco in Week 1 reflects both performance in preseason and the logistical realities of managing a smooth quarterback transition. With a crowded depth chart and a rebuild underway, the Broncos are prioritizing steadiness over upside in the short term.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Joe Flacco still in the NFL in 2024?
Yes. Flacco remains an active NFL quarterback and is on the Denver Broncos’ roster for the 2024 season.
Which team did Joe Flacco play for in 2023?
In 2023, Flacco was with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he served primarily as a backup to Jalen Hurts.
Why did Joe Flacco leave the Eagles?
Flacco departed Philadelphia in March 2024 to sign with the Denver Broncos, seeking a starting opportunity and a playoff-contending environment.
How does Flacco’s contract work in 2024?
His one-year contract includes incentives tied to Denver’s playoff performance and roster contributions, aligning his interests with the team’s success.
Where can I track Flacco’s weekly stats and game results?
Official NFL sites, the Denver Broncos’ team page, and reputable sports-data platforms provide real-time stats, game logs, and contract details.