Minnesota handed Cleveland its fourth loss of the season in a game played at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England. But it wasn’t all bad news for the Browns. Amid a deepening crisis, rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel is emerging as the team’s brightest hope.
The defeat dropped Kevin Stefanski’s squad to a 1-4 record, anchoring them at the bottom of the AFC North. Despite the poor start, Cleveland has kept most games competitive-excluding matchups against Baltimore and Detroit.
The London game was no exception. The Browns led for most of the contest until Carson Wentz flipped the score in the final minutes, sealing a 21-17 win for the Vikings.
Still, Stefanski can take solace in Gabriel’s breakout performance. In just one game, the rookie threw more touchdown passes than veteran Joe Flacco managed in the first four weeks of the season.
Gabriel surpasses Flacco’s numbers
Over four games, the 18-year veteran completed 93 of 160 passes for 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions.
Frustrated by Flacco’s underwhelming performance, Stefanski shocked fans and analysts by benching him in favor of Gabriel. The rookie delivered, tossing two touchdown passes against Minnesota.
Selected 94th overall in the third round, Gabriel connected with Harold Fannin Jr. for a one-yard score in the first quarter and found David Njoku for a nine-yard touchdown in the third.
Gabriel had already hinted at his potential with a touchdown pass in Week 2 against the Ravens. But the road ahead remains steep.
What’s next for Gabriel and the Browns
CBS Sports analyst Jordan Dajani sees promise in Gabriel’s development. “We know Gabriel is unlikely to morph into Josh Allen, but he is, in theory, a quick processor who can bring some consistency to the offense.”
Dajani also praised Cleveland’s 2025 rookie class, calling it one of the best in the NFL. Standouts include running back Quinshon Judkins, wide receiver Harold Fannin Jr., and linebacker Carson Schweisinger.
However, Stefanski needs his rookies to mature fast. With upcoming games against the Steelers, Ravens, and 49ers, time is a luxury the Browns can’t afford.
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