RAVENS JETTISON JOE FLACCO TO DENVER
The Denver Broncos acquired quarterback Joe Flacco from the Baltimore Ravens for a fourth-round draft pick in 2019.
What does it give the Denver Broncos
For the Broncos, this deal was necessary (even if Flacco represents somewhat of a short-term fix at age 34). Denver still has a very good defense and an excellent running game, so they want to get back to the postseason as quickly as possible. Flacco's big arm should help young receivers Courtland Sutton and DaeSean Hamilton, while also freeing up the rushing attack. Overall, this deal should help Denver a lot, but is it enough to get them back into Super Bowl contention? Probably not.
What does it give the Baltimore Ravens
For the Ravens, this trade was a no-brainer. Instead of being forced to release veteran Flacco (who lost the starting quarterback job to rookie Lamar Jackson in 2018), Baltimore will gladly accept a fourth rounder here. The move will also likely see veteran Robert Griffin III re-sign with the Ravens to serve as Jackson's mentor and backup QB (after serving a third-string role this past season). Overall, this was a solid trade for rookie General Manager Eric DeCosta and co.
Fantasy impact
Flacco's stock is obviously on the rise now that he is back to being a starting NFL quarterback again. However, at 34 years of age he is not in the top 10 anymore (if ever he was). Still, he improves Denver's offensive outlook and that of the Broncos' wide receivers, tight ends and backs. This trade also helps Jackson cement his status as a bona fide NFL starter, while former Denver starter Case Keenum is now in a state of flux. His fantasy stock will now nosedive as he will probably be released by Denver. His days as a No. 1 QB may be numbered as a result.
