Kenny Pickett is competing against Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders for the starting quarterback role with the Cleveland Browns as of 2025. This four-man competition has attracted attention since each candidate brings a distinct background, with Pickett aiming to secure the top spot.
While some analysts view Pickett as the outsider due to Flacco’s extensive experience and the high potential of rookies Gabriel and Sanders, Browns wide receiver Diontae Johnson expressed confidence that Pickett is positioned well to lead the team. Johnson’s perspective reflects the buzz surrounding Pickett’s chances in this deep quarterback group.
Teammate Insights on Pickett’s Prospects
Diontae Johnson, who joined the Browns this offseason on a one-year contract, indicated on June 13 in the “Sports and Suits” podcast that the coaching staff seems inclined to prioritize Pickett among the quarterbacks. Johnson believes Pickett is currently running with the first-team offense while Joe Flacco, coming off a Super Bowl-winning season with the Philadelphia Eagles, appears likely to start for the Browns in Week 1.
“I think they’re going to roll with Kenny for right now,” Johnson said on June 13, via the “Sports and Suits” podcast.
“I’ve been seeing Kenny going right now with the 1s. Then (Joe) Flacco will come in. I think they’re probably going to roll with him just coming off the season he was with Philly and having a Super Bowl. I think they’re going to stick with him through preseason.”
Johnson and Pickett share a history, having played together with the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2022 and 2023 NFL seasons. Their reunion on the Browns, led by coach Kevin Stefanski, strengthens team chemistry as the quarterback competition develops.
What Lies Ahead for Kenny Pickett in Cleveland
As Pickett enters his fourth NFL season, his journey has included a start at the University of Pittsburgh and an initial professional tenure with the Steelers. He spent the 2024 season as a backup for the Philadelphia Eagles, culminating in being part of the team’s Super Bowl victory against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Shortly after the Super Bowl, the Browns acquired Pickett in a trade that involved a fifth-round draft pick and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. This move landed Pickett in one of the league’s most crowded quarterback rooms as the 2025 season approaches.
Pickett appears optimistic about his opportunity to start the Browns’ Week 1 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. His substantial reps during the Browns’ mandatory minicamp suggest the coaching staff is seriously evaluating his potential as the franchise’s future starting quarterback. The upcoming training camp in July will be critical for determining the depth chart among this competitive quarterback lineup.