The Cleveland Browns announced that Joe Flacco will start at quarterback in Week 1. The decision leaves rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel waiting for their opportunity.
Flacco gets the nod as the veteran option. The move doesn’t come as much of a surprise given head coach Kevin Stefanski’s situation.
Stefanski needs wins this season. His job security depends on the team’s performance, even with expectations relatively low for Cleveland.
Gabriel positioned ahead of Sanders
The Browns’ latest unofficial depth chart shows Gabriel listed as third-string quarterback. Sanders sits at fourth string behind him.
“The Browns on Monday named Flacco their starting quarterback for Week 1, and Stefanski declined to name a backup at the time. Cleveland’s latest unofficial depth chart lists Pickett as the backup and Gabriel and Sanders as third- and fourth-string quarterbacks, respectively,” ESPN wrote.
The positioning could signal Gabriel has the inside track for eventual playing time.
Cleveland will likely turn to a young quarterback at some point this season. Whether that happens in Week 4, December, or later remains unclear.
Draft position vs. performance
Gabriel was selected in the third round while Sanders went in the fifth round. The draft capital invested in Gabriel might influence the Browns’ decision-making.
Both rookies showed promise during the preseason. Sanders played slightly better overall, but the team has to field the best possible roster.
If Sanders outperforms Gabriel moving forward, that should determine who plays.
The Browns face pressure to develop their young quarterbacks while trying to win games. Flacco provides stability in the short term, but Cleveland’s future lies with it’s younger options.
