Browns’ Quarterback Conundrum: Gabriel Welcomes Competition Amidst Sanders’ Spotlight
The Cleveland Browns orchestrated a draft that sent ripples through the NFL landscape, punctuated by the surprising selection of Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel in the third round. This move was particularly noteworthy as Shedeur Sanders, a player widely anticipated to be drafted earlier, experienced a slide down the draft board. The Browns ultimately added Sanders to their roster two rounds later, intensifying an already crowded quarterback room that includes veteran Joe Flacco and former Pittsburgh Steeler Kenny Pickett.
Sanders’ arrival in Cleveland has been accompanied by a considerable amount of media attention, a natural consequence of his established national profile. This has, to some extent, cast Gabriel in the shadow of his new teammate, despite the latter’s own accomplishments on the field, including a Heisman Trophy finalist nomination.
At the Browns’ rookie minicamp, Gabriel addressed the media, offering his perspective on having Sanders as a teammate. "I love it," Gabriel stated on Saturday. "You know, I love it because of who it is. I think just for us both, you can learn from one another. But also, it’s not just us two in the room. At least for now [during rookie minicamp] it is, but, you know, going into the year, Kenny, Joe and even Deshaun [Watson], just a bunch of guys who played a bunch of ball that we can all learn from one another."
Gabriel’s remarks underscore a team-first mentality, emphasizing the potential for mutual growth and collaboration within the quarterback group. He recognizes the value of learning from the collective experience of his teammates, including seasoned veterans like Flacco and Pickett, as well as the embattled Deshaun Watson.
Watson’s situation presents a unique dynamic to the Browns’ quarterback equation. After sustaining an Achilles injury during rehabilitation last season, his availability for the upcoming season remains uncertain. This unfortunate setback further complicates the team’s quarterback plans and places added importance on the development and readiness of Gabriel and Sanders.
Addressing the external comparisons between his performance at rookie minicamp and that of Sanders, Gabriel reiterated his commitment to team unity. "I think the more questions I get asked like that, it just divides the team," he explained. "For me, we’re in a room full of not just us – Kenny, Joe and Deshaun. For us, we know how important a healthy QB room is. But also, a team that you want to be a part of."
Gabriel’s mature response reflects an understanding of the potential pitfalls of internal comparisons and the importance of fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. He emphasized the need for a healthy quarterback room, both in terms of physical well-being and team cohesion, to maximize the collective potential of the group.
He also added, "How do you create an environment every single day where everybody can be their best? That’s just pushing one another, which talent naturally does. Naturally, it’s healthy. For us, we all go do our thing and everyone wins."
Acknowledging the inevitable quarterback competition that will unfold during the preseason, Gabriel emphasized his commitment to preparing as if he were the starter. "I only know one way to prepare," Gabriel asserted. "I only know one way to work, and that is as the starter. You know, I’ve played a bunch of ball and have a lot of experience, so I’m going to use that to my advantage."
Gabriel’s unwavering dedication and belief in his own abilities suggest that he intends to compete fiercely for the starting role, despite the presence of established veterans and the highly touted Sanders. His extensive experience at the collegiate level provides him with a solid foundation upon which to build his case for the starting job.
As it stands, Joe Flacco is likely the frontrunner to begin the season as the Browns’ starting quarterback. Flacco’s familiarity with head coach Kevin Stefanski’s offensive system, coupled with his remarkable performance in leading the Browns to the playoffs just two seasons ago, gives him a significant advantage. In that season, Flacco, in an improbable turn of events, came in mid-season and guided the Browns to a playoff berth, earning him Comeback Player of the Year honors, while Stefanski was named Coach of the Year.
The comparisons between Gabriel and Sanders are unavoidable. Their draft positions, combined with the inherent intrigue surrounding the quarterback position, have created a natural storyline that will undoubtedly continue to unfold throughout the preseason. Only time will tell who emerges as the primary challenger to Flacco.
Ultimately, the Browns’ quarterback situation is a complex and evolving one. The presence of multiple talented players, each with their own strengths and experiences, creates a competitive environment that should benefit the team as a whole. Gabriel’s mature approach to the situation, his emphasis on team unity, and his unwavering commitment to preparation position him as a valuable asset to the Browns, regardless of his eventual role on the team. The coming months will be a critical period for Gabriel and the other Browns quarterbacks as they vie for position and strive to contribute to the team’s success. The Browns coaching staff will have tough decisions to make as they evaluate each player’s performance and determine the best course of action for the season ahead. The team’s success may well depend on how effectively they manage this quarterback competition.
