Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin took a public jab at Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry after the Browns’ decision to trade veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals. The trade, which occurred last week, has sparked a range of reactions, with Tomlin expressing surprise and confusion over the move. During a post-game press conference following the Steelers’ 23-9 victory over the Browns, Tomlin commented on the trade, stating that it was ‘shocking’ and questioning the rationale behind sending a quarterback they presumably believed in to a divisional rival.
Tomlin’s comments reflect the ongoing tension between the Steelers and the Browns, particularly after the Steelers’ dominant performance in Week 6. The Steelers, currently 4-1 in the season, have historically outperformed the Browns, creating a sense of rivalry. This trade, however, adds a new layer of competition, as the Bengals, who are also part of the AFC North, now have a potential asset in Flacco. Flacco’s performance in the Browns’ 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers on September 21, where he recorded 219 passing yards and two touchdowns, had raised expectations for his role in the Bengals’ offense.
The trade has also raised questions about the Browns’ strategy. With rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel taking over as the starter, the decision to trade Flacco appears to have been a strategic move to address their depth at the position. However, Tomlin’s public critique highlights the growing scrutiny surrounding such decisions. As the league continues to evolve, the NFL’s competitive landscape is shaped by these types of moves, and Tomlin’s comments underscore the high stakes involved.