In a big move for the Cleveland Browns, Bailey Zappe has been named the starting quarterback for the team’s season finale against the Baltimore Ravens, making him the fourth quarterback to lead the Browns this season and the 40th since 1999. This important game will take place this Saturday, and Zappe, who was signed from the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad in October, will be looking to showcase his skills in what has been a challenging year for the team.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski made the announcement following Thursday’s practice, confirming Zappe’s starting role. The Browns, currently holding a record of 3-13, have faced considerable struggles throughout the season, and using multiple quarterbacks has become a concerning trend for the franchise, especially with the high turnover rate of their quarterbacks over the years.

Zappe’s Journey to the Starting Role

Bailey Zappe’s journey has been quite remarkable. Since joining the Browns, he has been working hard to prepare for his big chance. This game will mark his ninth career start, allowing him an opportunity to show what he can do on the field. Zappe has expressed excitement about this opportunity, emphasizing his desire to gain valuable playing experience and make a positive impact during the crucial matchup against the Ravens.

Injury Struggles and Team Dynamics

The year has not been easy for the Browns. The team has been without key players due to injuries, including quarterback Deshaun Watson, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. This injury led to the Browns cycling through quarterbacks, making Zappe the eighth starter since Watson’s $230 million contract began in 2022. The challenges have been tough, but Zappe is ready to step up to the plate.

Facing the Ravens: Game Day Preview

The upcoming game against the Ravens is vital for Baltimore, as they are vying for the AFC North title with a strong record of 11-5. The Browns, despite their struggles, have the chance to play spoiler. Alongside Zappe, the Browns plan to use Dorian Thompson-Robinson during the game, a decision stemming from the team’s need to evaluate their options heading into the off-season.

A Legacy of Quarterback Changes

This situation demonstrates an ongoing issue for the Browns as they have seen more starting quarterbacks since 1999 than any other NFL team. With Zappe now leading the charge, he contributes to setting a new NFL record for the most starting quarterbacks used by a single team, surpassing the Chicago Bears, who have used 30 since 1999. Only a handful of quarterbacks have managed to start consecutively in Cleveland over the years, making stability a significant challenge for the franchise.

Looking to the Future

While this season has ended up being a tough one for the Browns, they are already looking ahead with plans for a new domed stadium and the possibility of receiving the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft. As the team prepares for the future, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how young talents like Zappe perform, hoping they can be part of the solution that revitalizes the team.

Key Game Statistics and Matchup History

Here’s a look at some important statistics leading into the game:

With Zappe now under center, fans are hopeful for a spark in what has been a tough season. Whether it’s showcasing new talent or simply bringing excitement back into the game, one thing is for sure: this season’s finale will be one to watch.