Full Breakdown
Cleveland Browns' Quarterback Situation: A Focus on Rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders
9/3/2025, 1:51:54 PM
Overview of the Quarterback Depth Chart
As the Cleveland Browns prepare for the 2025 NFL season, the quarterback position has garnered significant attention. Veteran Joe Flacco has been named the starting quarterback, with rookie Dillon Gabriel positioned as the backup and fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders as the third-string option. This arrangement follows the Browns' strategic moves in the offseason, including the trade of Kenny Pickett to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Rookie Quarterbacks Under Scrutiny
Dillon Gabriel, selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has impressed both on and off the field. Assistant General Manager Catherine Hickman praised Gabriel's maturity and work ethic, noting his adaptability to new offensive systems. In preseason, Gabriel demonstrated his potential, completing 25 of 37 passes for 272 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
Conversely, Shedeur Sanders, drafted in the fifth round, faced challenges during the preseason. In his final game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sanders completed only three of six passes for 14 yards and was sacked five times. This performance raised questions about his readiness for the NFL, leading to his placement as the third quarterback on the depth chart.
Coaching Perspectives and Development Plans
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized the importance of development for both rookies. While Gabriel has shown promise, Sanders' path remains uncertain. Hickman acknowledged Sanders' dedication and growth but cautioned that evaluating a player's outlook after a limited preseason is difficult. The coaching staff plans to continue working closely with both quarterbacks to refine their skills.
Internal Competition and Future Prospects
The competition within the Browns' quarterback room is intense, with Flacco's experience juxtaposed against the potential of Gabriel and Sanders. Analysts suggest that if Flacco struggles, the Browns may quickly pivot to Gabriel, who has garnered significant trust from the coaching staff. Meanwhile, Sanders may see playing time later in the season as he continues to develop.
Criticism and External Perspectives
Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas has voiced concerns regarding the Browns' quarterback situation, suggesting that the system may be stacked against Sanders. He argued that if Sanders performs well, it could undermine the team's decision to draft Gabriel, potentially complicating the franchise's future quarterback strategy.
What's Next for the Browns?
As the Browns kick off their season against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 7, the focus will be on Flacco's performance and the potential for Gabriel and Sanders to see the field. The team's success or struggles could significantly influence their quarterback strategy moving forward, especially with the 2026 NFL Draft looming, where they may seek to add another signal-caller if neither rookie proves to be the long-term solution.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Dillon has been super impressive on and off the field,” — Catherine Hickman, Assistant General Manager
- “He works at his craft, he’s passionate, he’s dedicated to it,” — Catherine Hickman, Assistant General Manager
- “Competition always brings out the best in everyone. No matter where you're at in the NFL, there's always going to be someone pressing you.” — Mary Kay Cabot, Browns Insider
- “If he does perform well at some point in time, we can put him in. But they do not want him to be in front of Dillon, because then that means they were wrong here.” — Gilbert Arenas, Former NBA Player
The upcoming season will be pivotal for the Cleveland Browns as they navigate their quarterback situation, balancing the immediate needs of the team with the long-term potential of their rookie quarterbacks.
