The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback room is buzzing with intrigue this season. Veteran QB Joe Flacco, now 40, remains the team’s starting signal-caller, but behind him, the roster is stacked with talent and some important questions. Rookie Dillon Gabriel and fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders aren’t just warming the bench; they’re quietly jockeying for a future role that could extend far beyond mere backup duties. After the Browns HC declared Sanders will be QB3, the QB2 spot, which is currently occupied by Dillon Gabriel, suddenly became a stage where the Browns’ next-generation quarterback to prove his worth. Every practice, every snap carries significance, and Kevin Stefanski knows it.
When Kevin Stefanski was recently asked, on Sept. 17, whether Gabriel’s recent performances had tempted him to hand the rookie more playing time, Stefanski didn’t flinch to tell the truth. He said, “That’s not our focus. Our focus is on playing the Packers,” he told reporters, via NFL insider Tony Grossi. Stefanski’s answer was clear: the depth chart chatter ends at the sideline. Right now, the focus is singular: Sunday’s game in Green Bay.
The conversation surrounding the quarterback room in Cleveland continues to be active. The team has invested in Shedeur Sanders with the intention of developing him into a long-term starter. At the same time, Gabriel has already shown enough composure to attract attention. Even with Kenny Pickett’s departure to Las Vegas, discussions are still buzzing. Additionally, the fact that a 40-year-old Joe Flacco is currently holding the QB1 position only intensifies the speculation: Should the Browns consider planning for the future sooner rather than later?
Flacco brings a sense of stability to the team, with a commendable passer rating in the mid-80s. Gabriel, on the other hand, has truly impressed during his limited playtime, demonstrating a quicker release and agility that Flacco lacks. His preseason performance has been remarkable, boasting around 65% completions and an impressive 3-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. This competition could really elevate our team!
Stefanski’s Admiration for Gabriel’s Fit
Beyond the weekly grind, there’s growing evidence that Stefanski sees something special in Gabriel. NFL analyst Greg Cosell shared insights on the Ross Tucker Podcast, explaining why the rookie meshes so well with the Browns’ system. “Yeah, well, he [Dillon Gabriel] fits Kevin Stefanski,” Cosell said. “And Stefanski really liked him coming out because of the way in which he plays. Gabriel is purely a timing rhythm player. That’s the way Stefanski sees his offense, and there’s a ton of play action in his offense.”That praise speaks volumes.
Even if the Browns aren’t ready to officially open up the QB competition, Gabriel’s presence has already added a new layer to the conversation. Between a seasoned veteran, a highly-touted rookie, and a scheme-fit passer quietly proving himself, the Browns’ quarterback room is shaping up to be a storyline worth following all season long.
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