The Cleveland Browns have assembled one of the NFL’s most intriguing quarterback competitions heading into the new season.
Joe Flacco, 40, enters as the starter. Former Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel won the backup role over Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders during training camp and preseason play.
But one Browns insider suggests Flacco’s starting role might be shorter than expected.
Front Office High on Gabriel
Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com appeared on 92.3 The Fan to discuss Cleveland’s quarterback depth chart. She revealed the organization’s excitement about their young Oregon product.
“I don’t know if (Flacco) has even as much as half of a season…I think they are extremely excited about Dillon Gabriel and what he brings to the table.”
Cabot added that the Browns believe Gabriel possesses the experience and composure to run Kevin Stefanski’s offense effectively early in his rookie campaign.
“I think they believe that there is something to Dillon Gabriel and that he’s got enough savvy and enough poise to go out there and function efficiently with this offense even early on this season.”
Gabriel impressed during preseason action. He completed 25 of 37 passes with one touchdown and one interception.
The rookie showed he could operate Stefanski’s system while bouncing back from two turnovers.
Gabriel was selected with the 94th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. If Cabot’s assessment proves accurate, he could see starting reps much sooner than initially projected.
Flacco will need to perform at a high level to maintain his starting position throughout the season.
