PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — It’s a homecoming for veteran quarterback Joe Flacco — and one at a very noteworthy price, given where the 36-year-old is in his 13-year Super Bowl-winning career.
The Audubon, New Jersey, native and University of Delaware alum signed a one-year deal with his hometown team with $3.5 million guaranteed, according to NBC Sports Philadelphia’s John Clark.
On their website, the Eagles describe the addition as one for competition and depth at the quarterback position — which, prior to Tuesday, had only one player under contract: Jalen Hurts. According to that article, coach Nick Sirianni wants competition at every position.
So, the signing of Flacco likely (key word) answers one question: Will the Eagles take a quarterback with the sixth overall pick in the draft? This would point to no, but anything is possible in the NFL.
Despite the Eagles' indication that Flacco would compete with Hurts for the 2021 season, most, if not everyone, outside of the Novacare Complex seems to see Flacco as Hurts’ backup. That's why the $3.5 million figure is so eye-popping. Many prognosticators aren’t expecting the Eagles to compete.
Earlier this month, ESPN reported that Eagles Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie has instructed the team to prioritize Hurts’ success rather than bringing in competition. In a press conference last week, General Manager Howie Roseman insisted no such directive was given.
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Flacco embraced being backup to Sam Darnold last season on the New York Jets, so one would assume the longtime former Baltimore Ravens starter would be willing to do the same with Hurts in Philadelphia.
That question is likely to come up at Flacco's introductory press conference, whenever that is. That, and how much Flacco has left in the tank.
In five games, including four starts last season with the Jets, Flacco threw six touchdowns and three interceptions while going 74 of 134 (55.2%) with 864 passing yards.
Either way, this is an interesting signing for the Eagles — and one with a very strong local connection.
While he’s happy to be home, Flacco said this was a business decision and not one based on the opportunity to come back to the area.
"I really didn’t want to bring in the location as a factor in my decision," he said. "I wanted to give myself the best opportunity to be in a good situation.
"Right now, I’m here to play a part in the role of a 53-man roster that wants to win a lot of football games," he continued. "Obviously, I'm a competitor. I think that all those things and being competitive brings out the best in a room and brings out the best in a football team."