NFL Rumors: Cleveland Browns Make Huge Mistake by Passing on Matt Flynn

After watching the Washington Redskins win the Robert Griffin III sweepstakes, the Cleveland Browns should have made a strong push to sign Matt Flynn. He would have finally filled the team's void at quarterback, which is essential for them to become competitive.

Instead, Scott Petrak of the Chronicle-Telegram reports the Browns aren't even going to pursue the former Green Bay Packers backup:

"

Despite a report to the contrary, the Browns haven’t discussed a contract with free-agent quarterback Matt Flynn and won’t pursue him, a league source said this morning.

General manager Tom Heckert reiterated last week the Browns were “doubtful” to sign a high-profile veteran quarterback, but that didn’t stop the rumors and speculation the Browns would try to sign him – especially after they were unable to trade for the No. 2 pick in the draft, which would’ve been used on Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III.

"

Choosing to not even give Flynn a comprehensive look is a mistake by Cleveland. He would represent an immediate upgrade over Colt McCoy and has a far better chance of turning the Browns offense around than second-tier prospects Ryan Tannehill and Brandon Weeden.

Playing in the AFC North, the Browns have to know by now that they're going to need a legitimate franchise quarterback to keep up with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens on a yearly basis. Even the Cincinnati Bengals are a team on the rise.

There are still question marks about Flynn because his playing time behind Aaron Rodgers was limited. However, when he did get into games, he showed a lot of potential. Indeed, he has a career quarterback rating of 93 in those limited appearances.

The comparisons to Kevin Kolb don't make much sense. During his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Kolb didn't show anything like Flynn did in the season finale last year. With Rodgers resting, Flynn threw for 480 yards and six touchdowns. He made several terrific throws in that game.

Are there risks involved? Of course, but even Peyton Manning has risks. Flynn could have at least accelerated the rebuilding process. There's been no signs of McCoy becoming an elite QB, even though his targets have been lacking, and working in another rookie will be a multi-year process.

Since it seems like Flynn's market is lighter than originally expected, the Browns wouldn't have to battle a bunch of teams for his services. That is, at least not while Manning is still on the market.

Eventually, Cleveland will need to take a leap of faith and commit to a new quarterback. Flynn could have been that guy, but the Browns once again decided to accept a lesser option. It's an issue that will continue to leave them lagging behind.

When Flynn starts tearing apart defenses for a different team, Heckert and Co. will regret not attempting to sign him when they had a chance.