Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin on Monday openly questioned the Cleveland Browns and general manager Andrew Berry for the decision to execute a midseason trade sending quarterback Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals, saying, “It doesn’t make sense.” Tomlin, who has a history of vocal opinions about team decisions, expressed his frustration with the trade during a press conference, emphasizing that Flacco’s performance has been inconsistent but still valuable to the Browns’ offense.
The trade, which reportedly involved a package of draft picks and a mid-level free agent, has sparked debate among analysts and fans. Many argue that Flacco’s experience could have provided stability to the Browns’ young quarterback tandem, while others believe the move is an attempt to address long-term needs. Tomlin’s comments add to the growing scrutiny of the Browns’ management decisions, particularly in light of their recent struggles on the field and in the draft.
Browns general manager Andrew Berry has not publicly responded to Tomlin’s criticisms, but the team has faced increasing pressure to improve its performance and secure a better playoff position. The trade also raises questions about the value of midseason trades in the NFL, as teams often face challenges in assessing the true impact of such moves.