The Cleveland Browns enter the 2025 NFL season with a deep and intriguing quarterback room. With Deshaun Watson sidelined by an Achilles injury, veteran Joe Flacco appears set to begin the season as the starter.
But behind him, a heated competition is brewing between Kenny Pickett and two rookie quarterbacks: Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.
The Browns drafted Gabriel in the third round and Sanders in the fifth, signaling early that the team sees potential in both. While Flacco provides leadership and experience, the younger QBs are fighting for a long-term future-and possibly, an earlier-than-expected shot at the QB1 role.
Gabriel’s mental edge separates him
Among the young challengers, Dillon Gabriel has emerged as a standout, not just for his accuracy but for his elite processing ability. Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot recently described Gabriel’s mental speed as his “superpower”-he sees the field clearly, makes rapid decisions, and plays with a rhythm suited to a timing-based offense.
Though slightly undersized and lacking a cannon arm, Gabriel has consistently drawn praise for delivering the ball on time with precision.
In college, he produced nearly 19,000 passing yards and tied the NCAA career touchdown record with 155. He also earned First-Team All-American honors and was named the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year.
Scouts have described Gabriel as “tough, accurate, and disciplined,” and that poise was evident during rookie minicamp. Reporters including Tony Grossi said Gabriel looked more polished than Sanders-showing better footwork, a tighter spiral, and superior pocket control.
One possible advantage: the Browns spent a higher pick on Gabriel, which may earn him more patience and opportunities early on.
That said, Shedeur Sanders isn’t going quietly. He threw for over 4,100 yards and 37 touchdowns last year at Colorado with a 74% completion rate-making him one of the most efficient passers in college football. His arm strength and mobility give him natural upside.
Still, some off-field issues, including two speeding violations, have raised concerns about maturity. Gabriel, meanwhile, has earned praise for professionalism and community involvement.
At this stage, Joe Flacco remains the frontrunner to start Week 1. But injuries, performance dips, or a strong preseason showing from a rookie could change that quickly.
For now, the Browns are watching closely. With Gabriel’s quick-processing brain and Sanders’ dynamic tools, the future of Cleveland’s quarterback room could shift sooner than expected-especially if either rookie capitalizes on their unique edge during training camp.
Read the full article here
