Last week, Dillon Gabriel, the rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, made some notable comments during halftime of the Browns’ preseason game against the Eagles. He mentioned a distinction between “celebrities” and “competitors,” emphasizing that he sees himself as a competitor. When reporters pressed him about whether he was referring to his teammate, fellow rookie Shader Sanders, Gabriel clarified that he views the media as entertainers and considers everyone on the Browns roster competitive.
Shader Sanders, who was mentioned in Gabriel’s remarks, shared his thoughts afterward. He responded to Gabriel’s “celebrity” comment by stating, “Words or something, I can’t do anything” and added that he doesn’t let people’s opinions affect him. He recounted a discussion with Gabriel in which he expressed that the comments were misrepresented.
Reporters sought further clarification by asking Sanders if he believed Gabriel’s statements were genuine. Sanders replied somewhat cautiously, hinting that there might be a narrative being crafted around the comment but he didn’t want to delve too deep into it. He acknowledged the reporters were just doing their jobs while noting that the situation wouldn’t significantly impact his life.
In the preseason opener for the Browns, Sanders performed well, throwing two touchdown passes, but he later went down with an oblique injury in the second game. On the other hand, Gabriel finished his second week of preseason with 143 passing yards but had a tough moment when he threw an interception returned for a touchdown.
Joe Flacco, the Super Bowl champion, has been named the starting quarterback for the Browns as they prepare for the regular season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. The team’s quarterback group also includes Sanders, Gabriel, Kenny Pickett, and Tyler Huntley.
