The Patriots are targeting a potential franchise quarterback with their third-round selection, as Cabot reported. The rookie contract of Mac Jones, the No. 15 overall pick in 2021, is still in effect for one year. He is probably not going to start for New England.

Browns Open to Joe Flacco Returning

Deshaun Watson will return to the Browns next season, but Flacco’s return as the team’s number two on the depth chart would still be welcome. Last season, Cleveland discovered the importance of having an experienced backup on hand.

With Watson sidelined by two separate shoulder injuries last season, the Browns started five different quarterbacks. Flacco, Jeff Driskel, rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and PJ Walker were among them.

Although Flacco would not have the opportunity to start in Cleveland, the Browns would cherish having him on the team. General manager of the Browns Andrew Berry expressed his support for Flacco returning for the upcoming campaign.

“We’d absolutely love to have Joe back,” Berry said on January 22. “He’s a good quarterback, but I guess, maybe a little bit similar to Jacoby last year, it depends, right? I want to bring all of our good players back, but there are constraints to that on really kind of both sides of the aisle, but would have no problem having Joe back.”

The Browns could potentially sign Flacco to an extension before he hits free agency. However, Flacco is expected to test the waters and at least get a gauge for what he could get elsewhere.

Joe Flacco Wants Shot at Starting Role

Flacco isn’t getting any younger. The idea of sitting in a backup role is not overly enticing for the 39-year-old. That being said, Flacco has gushed about his time with the Browns and would be open to a return.

“I’m going to take my time as always, but it was one of the best experiences of my life,” Flacco told cleveland.com. “I love it there, so definitely want to (come back).”

If Flacco were not to return, the Browns are expected to pursue another veteran backup option. Jacoby Brissett, Mitchell Trubisky and Marcus Mariota are names that have been floated as potential options for the Browns this offseason.

After a stellar preseason, Thompson-Robinson performed admirably when his number was called during his rookie season. But the Browns clearly want to give him more time to develop being locked in as the No. 2 option