As the Cleveland Browns finalize their quarterback hierarchy for the 2025 season, rookie Dillon Gabriel has been forced to confront a sobering reality.
The rookie has narrowly surpassed fellow first-year Shedeur Sanders to become the No. 2 quarterback behind veteran Joe Flacco. Official announcements from the team confirmed Gabriel’s advancement, with Sanders sliding to third string-a shift that sets the stage for high-stakes competition and heavy expectations.
For now, Gabriel’s role is locked as the No. 2 quarterback, narrowly edging out fellow rookie Sanders, who has slipped to third on the depth chart.
But he must also grasp the fact that his only realistic shot at taking over the starting job is if veteran Flacco goes down with injury.
Appearing on the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Nathan Zegura didn’t mince his words: “I think Dillon Gabriel’s opportunity likely would only come in the event of an injury to Joe Flacco. Or if we get to a point in the season where things are not going the way that we wanted them to go.”
Even with this, Gabriel knows the battle is far from over. Staying ahead of Sanders is as important as preparing for the possibility of being thrust into action should anything happen to Flacco.
Gabriel’s edge comes with pressure
Former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky explained that Gabriel’s arm strength was the key factor in separating him from Sanders. That trait, paired with his steadiness in practice, made the difference in the coaching staff’s decision.
But the decision doesn’t guarantee job security. Gabriel isn’t expected to see the field unless Flacco suffers an injury, meaning his development must continue in the background. In the meantime, the rookie has to ensure Sanders doesn’t close the gap.
Sanders, despite preseason struggles, remains a high-profile talent with raw ability and plenty of outside support. Analysts have already speculated that if Gabriel falters in practice or exhibition reps, the coaching staff could be pressured into giving Sanders another look.
Gabriel’s arm strength offered a reliability that resonated during key drills and matchups-something that Sanders, for all his potential, couldn’t consistently show.
A balancing act for the Browns
The Browns’ quarterback room is a delicate balancing act. Flacco is the unquestioned starter, bringing experience and leadership. Gabriel’s role is to be ready at a moment’s notice-but only if injuries or unexpected setbacks strike. Meanwhile, Sanders has been relegated to a developmental role, which he may not accept quietly.
For Gabriel, that means walking a fine line. He must stay sharp, mastering the playbook and earning the coaching staff’s trust each week, while also doing enough to prove he deserves to keep his place. Every practice snap and preseason appearance could determine whether he stays firmly entrenched as backup or risks sliding down the chart.
Gabriel’s current situation may not be glamorous, but it’s an opportunity nonetheless. The rookie must embrace the pressure of being second in line, knowing his NFL future hinges on preparation, consistency, and proving that the Browns made the right choice.
If Flacco stays healthy, Gabriel might spend much of the season on the sidelines. But if the veteran is forced to miss time, the spotlight will shift to the rookie-who must be ready to step in immediately, while ensuring that Sanders doesn’t leapfrog him in the meantime.
Read the full article here
