The Cleveland Browns are once again making headlines, but unfortunately, it's for the wrong reasons. Heading toward the final week of the NFL season, they are set to extend their league-record for quarterback turnover as Bailey Zappe prepares to take the field against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. This latest change marks the 40th starting quarterback for the Browns since they returned to the league in 1999, surpassing any other team significantly, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
This tumultuous quarterback history has been fueled by the unfortunate injury to Deshaun Watson, who suffered a season-ending Achilles tear during Week 7. Following Watson’s injury, the Browns turned to several signal-callers, including Jameis Winston, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and now Zappe, who was signed off the Kansas City Chiefs' practice squad earlier this season. This is the third time since Watson was guaranteed $230 million on his five-year contract, which started under immense expectations, the franchise has relied primarily on other quarterbacks instead.
Watson’s signing aimed to solidify the team’s offensive capabilities, but suspensions and injuries have led to eight different quarterbacks taking the reins since last season, with four of them during the current season alone. Zappe now joins this lengthy list, which includes past starters like Joe Flacco, P.J. Walker, and Jeff Driskel. Each of these players has uniquely contributed to the franchise's reputation for quarterback unpredictability.
With Zappe officially becoming the eighth quarterback to make just one start for the Browns, it highlights the fleeting nature of stability at this position for the franchise. This recent history began with Tim Couch, who was the franchise's inaugural starter after returning to the NFL, but since then, continuity has been scarce; only three quarterbacks—Derek Anderson, Colt McCoy, and Baker Mayfield—have managed to serve consecutive seasons as the team’s top passer. Mayfield was the last to have his passing lead for four seasons until he was traded to the Carolina Panthers.
Unfortunately for Zappe, his debut on Saturday against Baltimore went awry almost immediately. Just under nine minutes remaining in the first quarter, Zappe threw an interception to Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins, who made the most of his opportunity by returning it for a pick-six. It was just the kind of start no player wants on their debut, and once again showed how tumultuous Cleveland's quarterback situation has been.
While Zappe managed to compile some yardage, he struggled overall, completing only 5 of 11 passes for 55 yards, with no touchdowns and the costly interception at halftime. Moments later, head coach Kevin Stefanski opted to replace him with Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who helped the team to score later with his successful drive.
This game against the Ravens was more than just about the spread on the field; it holds significance within the AFC North. With the Ravens positioned to clinch the division title by securing this win, the Browns find themselves at the bottom of the hierarchy, desperately hoping for change and improvement as they stare down possible first-round picks for the upcoming draft.
The quarterback carousel has bred frustration among fans and analysts alike. They wonder where the Browns will go from here; if Zappe will get more chances, or if they will pivot once again as the draft approaches. What is clear is the need for stability at the quarterback position moving forward, something the Browns have not enjoyed since their return.
The Browns' quarterback woes have led to widespread consequences, including shifts in team strategy, draft discussions, and the mental resilience of the roster itself. While Zappe's initial performance was lackluster, there might still be hope for his future with the team—and just maybe, he could become part of the solution rather than another chapter of disappointment.
With the final game of the season approaching, all eyes will be on the Browns to see how they handle the on-field challenges and whether any semblance of resolve can be found before the offseason begins. The house of cards at the quarterback position cannot continue without repercussions for the entire franchise.