was given the Comeback Player of the Year title for his valiant performances with the Cleveland Browns, but the 39-year-old quarterback’s win did not sit well with everyone.
In the vote, Flacco defeated Buffalo Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin 151-140. For the greater part of the year, Hamlin was the clear favorite. He had a heart attack on the field in January 2023, but he came back to play for the Bills this season.
The Browns signed Flacco off the sofa in November. Throughout the regular season, he ignited Cleveland’s attack with four victories out of five starts, throwing for 1,616 yards and thirteen touchdowns. However, turnovers were a problem. In his five appearances during the regular season, he threw eight interceptions. During a 45-14 wild-card rout of the Houston Texans, he threw two more passes. Each one was brought back for a touchdown.
The newest iteration of NBC Sports’ Football Morning in America columnist Peter King referred to Flacco’s victory as “absurd.”
absurd that Joe Flacco—who had spent the previous two and a half months resting on his couch—won Comeback Player over Damar Hamlin—who had to be revived on a football field in January of last year—King wrote. What could be more powerful than absurd? Crazy? Alright. It was ridiculous.
don’t really know where I’m coming from,” Flacco stated on January 26 when he spoke on the Zach Gelb Show. “Most of the folks on that list—I’m not sure where we’re coming from, I would say. That was definitely my first response. But I suppose it might be pleasant anytime you’re acknowledged for your good play in this league. That being said, it’s very nice to be a member of this club. But indeed, it was my first impression.
It’s hardly an original viewpoint from King. Flacco even stated that Hamlin should have won the prize.
