Cleveland Browns Announce Backup Quarterback for Upcoming Season
Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has shared his choice for the backup quarterback to Joe Flacco this season. Surprisingly, Dillon Gabriel, a rookie selected two rounds earlier, will step into that role for the 41-year-old Flacco as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1.
Stefanski clarified that Shedeur Sanders, also a recent draft pick, will hold the position of third-string quarterback. He mentioned that this decision was based on a thorough evaluation of their performances.
When explaining the rationale for selecting Gabriel over Sanders, Stefanski noted, “We reviewed everything comprehensively. What they both did in games was crucial, and I think Gabriel has the edge.” This marks a strategic move after the team made significant changes to their quarterback lineup prior to finalizing their 53-man roster.
In a prior shift, veteran Tyler “Snoop” Huntley was released, and the Browns traded Kenny Pickett to the Las Vegas Raiders. This was a crucial trade, especially since the Raiders needed a backup after their main option, Aidan O’Connell, suffered a broken wrist during preseason.
With Huntley and Pickett no longer part of the team, the remaining options are Flacco, Gabriel, and Sanders. DeShaun Watson is still recovering from a torn Achilles, effectively ruling him out for this season.
Interestingly, Sanders had shown promise initially, posting solid stats in his preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers—completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns. However, after missing the second game due to injury, he struggled in the finale against the Rams.
Conversely, Gabriel played well in his last two preseason games after recovering from a hamstring injury. He finished with commendable stats, including 25 of 37 passes for 272 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Notably, he threw the sole touchdown of the preseason during his game against the Rams.
The depth chart can shift frequently, and while Sanders currently sits as the third string, there’s potential for his growth within the team, which could lead to him becoming a key player in the future.
