In a surprising turn of events, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has expressed his intentions to continue playing in the NFL next season, according to sources familiar with the situation. The news was reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport on Sunday morning, shedding light on Flacco's determination to extend his football career.

The 38-year-old quarterback made headlines when he joined the Cleveland Browns' practice squad on November 19. After backup quarterbacks Dorian Thompson-Robinson and PJ Walker struggled to fill in for the injured Deshaun Watson, Flacco was given the opportunity to start in Week 12. Although he lost his first game with the Browns, Flacco showcased his skills by throwing for 254 yards and two touchdowns. He continued to impress in the following week, leading the Browns to a decisive victory over the Jaguars while passing for an impressive 311 yards and three touchdowns.

Following his impressive performances, the Browns announced that Flacco would remain the starting quarterback for the rest of the season. Shortly after, Flacco secured a contract with the team's 53-man roster. According to Rapoport, the one-year contract is valued at a maximum of $4.05 million, with a base salary of $1.8 million and a $400,000 signing bonus. Additionally, the contract includes escalating bonuses for playoff wins, ranging from $250,000 for a wild card win up to $2 million for a Super Bowl victory.

This unexpected development comes as a surprise, considering that no teams had shown interest in signing Flacco during the current season. It wasn't until Flacco joined the Browns' practice squad that several teams reached out. However, Rapoport stated that it was unlikely for any team to persuade the veteran quarterback to leave Ohio.

The Browns, who currently hold an 8-5 record, are in the midst of a tight race for a playoff spot in the AFC. They will face the Chicago Bears, who are 5-8, in their upcoming game on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. As the starting quarterback for a team on the cusp of the postseason, Flacco's experience and leadership could prove invaluable in their pursuit of a playoff berth.

Flacco's decision to continue playing in the 2024 season brings excitement and speculation about his potential impact and contributions to the Browns or any other team that may be interested in his services. As a Super Bowl-winning quarterback, Flacco's desire to prolong his career showcases his determination and love for the game. Football fans and pundits will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Flacco's journey in the coming year.