Quarterback Josh Dobbs had a wild 2023 season.
In a span of about three months, he went from being the Browns’ backup quarterback to the Cardinals’ starting quarterback and then to the Vikings’ starting quarterback. He was traded twice across that time frame and made the most of each new opportunity he got.
All told, Dobbs made appeared in 13 games and made 12 starts, completing 62.8% of his passes for 2,464 yards, 13 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Dobbs also authored one of the most memorable moments of the regular season, coming on in relief of injured Vikings quarterback Jaren Hall to rally Minnesota to a comeback victory against Atlanta on Nov. 5 despite not having taken a single practice rep with his new team or even knowing everyone’s name.
Now, the 29-year-old Dobbs is set to enter free agency, and he knows what he wants.
“First and foremost, I’m blessed for another opportunity in free agency, but I’m looking for a little stability, for sure," Dobbs told Afternoon Drive on The Fan. "Last year was a whirlwind – in a good way. Like a lot of growth, a lot of opportunity, opportunity to be a week-in and week-out starter and go out and compete each week. But also, there was a lot of instability in those situations. So I’m looking for an opportunity and stability, an opportunity to again go out and compete, compete to play week in and week out. And an opportunity to grow within an organization, wherever that is. I was able to show people I can put my best foot forward in the most inconsistent situation. So to get a consistent situation, a consistent environment to go out and be the best version of myself, that’s what I’m looking for.
“Free agency ramps up very quickly on Monday. There will be some unique opportunities out there.”
When asked if he's open to returning to the Browns, Dobbs responded, "I'm definitely open." Dobbs has had two stints in Cleveland, in 2022 and 2023, though he never appeared in a regular-season game for the Browns.
"I would assess every situation and every opportunity out there, then ultimately make the best decision for my career," he said. "I really enjoyed by time in Cleveland."