Philadelphia, PA – May 16, 2025 – In a stunning display of passion, former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Joe Flacco has accepted a jaw-dropping pay cut to keep playing the game he loves. Once earning $416,000 per week during his prime, the 40-year-old veteran has signed with the Indianapolis Colts for the 2025 season at a mere $225,000 for the entire year—a practice squad salary—just to chase his football dreams and embody the unyielding Eagles spirit.
Flacco, who backed up Jalen Hurts with the Eagles in 2021, earned a $3.5 million guaranteed contract that year, averaging $416,000 weekly over the 17-week season. Now, after a storied 17-year career, including a Super Bowl XLVII MVP with the Ravens and NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2023 with the Browns, Flacco’s love for the game outweighs financial gain. “I’d play for free if I had to,” Flacco told The Indianapolis Star. “Football’s my life—it’s about the grind, not the money.”
The Colts signed Flacco to their practice squad after a roster crunch, paying him the league minimum for practice squad players with over two years of experience: $12,500 per week, totaling $225,000 for the 18-week season. Despite the pay cut, Flacco’s impact is undeniable, appearing in 3 games this season with 15/23 completions, 182 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT, mentoring young QB Anthony Richardson.
Eagles fans on X are in awe, one posting, “Flacco’s got that Philly grit—Eagles spirit never dies!” Lane Johnson, a former teammate, added, “Joe’s heart is pure football. That’s why we loved him here.”
🗣️When asked about retirement by the BBC, Flacco responded firmly: “I can’t think about that yet—I’ve still got work to do here.” His unwavering commitment underscores his drive to keep playing, proving that age and money are no match for his passion.
With A.J. Brown and Jalen Hurts driving the offense, Flacco’s story proves that true passion transcends paychecks. As the Philly Special Era rolls on, the Eagles, now led by Jalen Carter, aim for Super Bowl LX.
