Browns Adjust Quarterback Situation with Rookie Dilongabriel

This week, the Browns made a significant change at quarterback, but the spotlight didn’t shine on Chedure Sanders, as some might have expected. Instead, third-round pick Dilongabriel took the reins against the London Vikings, marking the 41st starting quarterback for the franchise since 1999.

Sanders, who had dropped from a projected first-round pick to the fifth round (144th overall), was positioned as the third-string quarterback this week.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport, the decision not to elevate Sanders to Gabriel’s backup arose from the Browns’ desire to ensure that Sanders could succeed. They indicated that they want him to step onto the field with a focused game plan designed to maximize his potential.

Interestingly, Rapaport suggested that it’s likely Sanders will see playing time later this season when he’s fully prepared, as a structured practice routine and a game plan are being tailored for him.

At just 23, Sanders played under the guidance of his father, Hall of Fame player Deion Sanders, while at Colorado. Following the announcement of the quarterback switch, he engaged in a rather unusual interview with reporters.

Flacco, the veteran quarterback, didn’t have the best performance statistics this season—he had a troubling passer rating of just 60.3, with two touchdowns against six interceptions, all contributing to Cleveland’s disappointing 1-3 start. Meanwhile, injured veteran Deshaun Watson, out due to a ruptured Achilles, has signed a contract but is not anticipated to return this season.

The Browns do hold two first-round picks in 2026, so this remaining season is shaping up to be an important evaluation period for both Gabriel and Sanders. As the game against the Vikings progressed, the Browns were ahead, 17-14, late in the third quarter.