The Cleveland Browns selected former Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The team invested early in Gabriel to compete with veteran Joe Flacco and journeyman Kenny Pickett.
Gabriel’s struggling in training camp. He’s slipping down the depth chart as practices continue.
Fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders out of Colorado is pulling ahead of Gabriel in the competition.
ESPN Cleveland’s QB Tracker reported Friday’s team drill results. Flacco, Sanders, and Gabriel all participated with Pickett sidelined.
Gabriel completed just 3-of-14 passes in team drills. He threw an interception and failed to reach the end zone.
Sanders connected on 70% of his throws and tossed a touchdown. Flacco added three scoring passes.
The performance represents a concerning trend for Gabriel. He hasn’t adjusted to NFL game speed yet.
This contrasts sharply with his college production at Oregon. Gabriel ranked among the nation’s most efficient quarterbacks in his final season.
Gabriel’s final Oregon season included a 72.9% completion rate. He threw for 3,857 yards with 30 touchdowns and six interceptions.
His current struggles in Berea show the opposite results.
Gabriel’s issues extend beyond statistics. He lacks rhythm and command in the Browns’ offense that’s difficult to overlook.
Sanders looks composed and decisive in practice. Gabriel appears to still be searching for his footing.
Preseason games offer Gabriel opportunities to turn around his performance. Each missed throw chips away at the confidence Cleveland showed by drafting him in the third round.
Sanders continues trending upward while Flacco provides veteran stability.
Gabriel can’t afford another poor showing like Friday’s practice.
The Browns aren’t expected to name a backup quarterback soon. Gabriel’s window to make an impression is shrinking.
If Gabriel doesn’t find his rhythm quickly, more than the QB2 spot could be at risk. His roster spot might be in jeopardy if the struggles continue.
