Full Breakdown
Browns Confirm No Trade Plans for Backup Quarterbacks Amid League-Wide Injury Concerns
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The statement applies to backup quarterback Shedeur Sanders, former third-round pick Dillon Gabriel—currently on injured reserve—and developmental rookie Taylen Green, who remains the inactive third quarterback. The Browns’ decision comes as multiple NFL teams grapple with starting-quarterback injuries early in the 2026 season.
Background & Context
In Week 1, starter Deshaun Watson posted a 40-for-52 passing line for 443 yards, three touchdowns, one interception and a 112.9 passer rating, adding 13 rush attempts for 60 yards. Cleveland entered Week 3 with a 1-1 record. Injuries to quarterbacks such as the New York Giants’ Jaxson Dart, Washington Commanders’ Jayden Daniels, and Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams have heightened the perceived value of depth at the position.
Official Statements & Responses
Cabot’s report emphasized that the Browns intend to retain Sanders as the No. 2 quarterback, with the possibility of starting him if Watson’s performance declines. Gabriel is expected to return from injured reserve as early as Week 5, while Green will likely continue as the inactive third option. The organization’s stance reflects a preference for internal depth rather than pursuing external assets before the November 10 deadline.
Data & Statistics
- Deshaun Watson (Weeks 1-2): 40/52, 443 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT, 112.9 rating; 13 rushes for 60 yards.
- Shedeur Sanders (2025 rookie season): 1,400 passing yards, 7 TD, 10 INT, 56.6 % completion, 23 sacks taken; four-year rookie contract ~ $4.6 M.
- Dillon Gabriel: On IR with a back injury; eligible Week 5.
- Taylen Green: Fourth-round rookie, inactive each week to date.
Why It Matters
Keeping four quarterbacks gives Cleveland insurance against the spate of injuries affecting other clubs and preserves developmental options and potential trade leverage later in the season.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While outlets such as Newsweek, NBC Sports, Bleacher Report and Heavy cite Cabot’s statement that the Browns have no trade plans, other media personalities and fan-site commentary suggest interest from teams like the Giants or Commanders. No official trade discussions have been confirmed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Nevertheless, the Browns have no plans to trade away their No. 2 and No. 3 quarterbacks now or before the trade deadline Nov. 10,” — Mary Kay Cabot.
- “Let me tell you something right now,” — Stephen A. Smith.
- “It ain’t about looking for a top 30 quarterback. It’s for looking for a better backup than Jameis Winston. That’s what you are looking for right now,” — Stephen A. Smith.
- “You could see the difference from week one to week two, and I think we’re just going to continue to grow together,” — Todd Monken, head coach.
- “I think the Browns deal Shedeur before the deadline,” — Tony Rizzo, ESPN Cleveland.
What’s Next
The NFL trade deadline remains set for November 10. The Browns’ roster strategy will be reassessed after Week 3, particularly if Watson’s performance fluctuates or additional injuries arise among the backups.