The Cleveland Browns‘ quarterback situation has been one of the most talked-about storylines of the 2025 NFL season.
With rookie Dillon Gabriel starting and Shedeur Sanders waiting on the sidelines, fans have been clamoring to see whether the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders will get his shot.
But a strong statement from J.J. Watt this week suggests that Sanders’ opportunity in Cleveland might be further away than many think.
The Browns raised eyebrows during the 2025 NFL Draft when they selected Gabriel in the third round and Sanders two rounds later.
While Sanders arrived with greater name recognition and gaudier college numbers, over 4,000 yards and 37 touchdowns in his final year at Colorado – the Browns’ front office made clear that they viewed Gabriel as the more pro-ready option.
So far, the results have been mixed. Gabriel has completed just over 56 percent of his passes through six weeks and struggled in the Browns’ 30-20 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, throwing for only 221 yards on 52 attempts.
Still, the coaching staff continues to back him, pointing to his ball security and command of the offense as reasons to stay the course.
J.J. Watt backs Gabriel and delivers reality check for Sanders
Speaking on CBS Sports HQ, J.J. Watt weighed in on the Browns’ quarterback debate and delivered a clear message about how the organization views its two young signal-callers.
“I think Dillon Gabriel has this offense,” Watt said. “He’s in command of it, he’s the one who they are trying to build this around, and Shedeur is going to continue to grow and develop in that role behind him.”
Watt’s words echoed what many within the organization have hinted at privately: that Cleveland’s long-term plan centers on Gabriel, at least for now. The team’s investment, a third-round pick compared to Sanders’ fifth-round selection, reflects that hierarchy.
Despite some fans calling for Sanders to get a chance, Watt’s comments suggest the Browns aren’t looking to shake up their depth chart anytime soon.
Sanders’ situation is further complicated by the fact that Gabriel‘s stats put him 34th among all NFL quarterbacks, placing him above several veterans who’ve struggled this season.
Sanders‘ path to the starting role, then, might not come through Cleveland. Trade rumors have already linked him to the Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints, two teams with unstable quarterback situations.
However, the logistics make a move tricky: the Raiders are still committed financially to Geno Smith, and the Saints appear willing to ride out the growing pains of Spencer Rattler.
For now, Sanders remains in developmental mode. The Browns have reportedly been impressed with his preparation and leadership behind the scenes, but barring an injury or drastic change in form from Gabriel, his role will likely remain that of backup for the foreseeable future.
If anything, Watt‘s comments served as a public confirmation of what the Browns’ actions have already shown that Shedeur Sanders‘ road to an NFL starting job may have to go through another city.
And while his talent and pedigree make him one of the most intriguing young quarterbacks in the league, patience, and perhaps a new opportunity, will determine when he finally gets his turn.
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