Even after earning his first NFL win, Dillon Gabriel has yet to fully convince Cleveland Browns fans. However, it seems head coach Kevin Stefanski remains committed to the third-round quarterback he selected in last year’s Draft. The former Oregon Ducks starter has a 1-2 record in three starts and can now at least claim one victory in the league.
Since preseason, Dillon Gabriel has been a favorite of Kevin Stefanski. He earned opportunities with the first team despite the presence of veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, who are no longer with the franchise. Pickett was traded to the Raiders before the season, and Flacco was sent to the Cincinnati Bengals prior to Week 6.
Since Week 5, Dillon Gabriel has led the Browns’ offense but has yet to make a major impact. In his first start against the Minnesota Vikings, he threw two touchdown passes and came close to winning. Against the Steelers, he attempted 52 passes without scoring a touchdown, and he also struggled against the Dolphins.
Terry Bradshaw defends Dillon Gabriel
There’s no doubt that Dillon Gabriel is the least to blame for the drama surrounding the Cleveland Browns, especially regarding Shedeur Sanders. Gabriel, a third-round pick, has consistently received the benefit of the doubt from head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Gabriel’s numbers so far have been modest. In five games, three as a starter, the former Oregon Ducks quarterback has 546 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Despite criticism, former NFL quarterback and Pittsburgh Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw praised Gabriel’s future: “I think he’s gonna be a star in the league.”
Another concern has been Gabriel’s completion percentage, which is below 60%. This is worrisome, especially since many of his passes have been short, near the line of scrimmage. Additionally, he has not shown much vertical passing ability.
For now, the win against the Miami Dolphins-where he threw for just 116 yards-earns him another week as the starter. However, the next test will be tough, as the Browns face one of the best teams in the AFC: the New England Patriots, led by Drake Maye.
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