Quarterback Dillon Gabriel took the field in a Cleveland Browns uniform for the first time on Saturday, but his preseason showing has sparked notable reactions from observers. The Browns’ quarterback situation remains uncertain as Gabriel competes for a spot amidst fierce competition, a key detail in the latest Deshaun Watson Browns quarterback update.
Gabriel began confidently, leading Cleveland to an early touchdown by efficiently converting multiple third-down opportunities and relying on a short passing strategy. However, his momentum faltered when a pass was intercepted by Philadelphia safety Andrew Mukuba, who returned it 75 yards, ending the drive abruptly. Gabriel also took a sack and found it difficult to stretch the field before being replaced by Tyler Huntley.
Expert Perspectives Urge Caution on Preseason Judgments
Quincy Avery, a trainer known for working with Deshaun Watson and other <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL quarterbacks, cautioned fans against overvaluing preseason statistics and performances. His advice highlights the limitations of early evaluations during the exhibition games.
“Put your phones down. It’s the preseason. The preseason can not confirm someone is ready for the NFL. It can confirm someone is not,” Avery said.
Competition Intensifies as Browns Navigate QB Depth Chart Challenges
The Browns are managing one of the NFL’s most crowded and unpredictable quarterback battles this season. Deshaun Watson remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from last year’s Achilles injury, focusing primarily on rehabilitation work. Meanwhile, the team depends on its quarterback depth in practice and preseason action.
Veteran Joe Flacco leads the depth chart, but injuries have sidelined both Kenny Pickett and rookie Shedeur Sanders, complicating the competition. Sanders impressed with his performance during the preseason opener, earning praise from former Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel, who described Sanders as ready for the moment.
“I think he is unique,” Manziel told USA TODAY.
“He beats to his own drum. He is going to be different than a lot of guys that you’re going to see around the league … Looking at it from an outside perspective, somebody that obviously has ties to Cleveland, just keep going, keep balling, keep trying to get better … Eventually his day’s going to come to where he is the starter there and hopefully he can make the most of it.”
Gabriel’s College Experience Shapes Expectations
Dillon Gabriel enters this competition carrying the experience of a seasoned college quarterback. Over six years with UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon, he started 63 games and earned the Big Ten MVP award last season. His background sets a foundation for potential success, despite the early preseason struggles.
What Lies Ahead for Cleveland’s Quarterback Group
As the Browns continue to assess their quarterback roster, the evolving battle under center remains critical. Deshaun Watson’s recovery timeline will significantly influence decisions, while the performances of Gabriel, Sanders, and others throughout the preseason and training camp will shape the final depth chart. Given the level of competition and the mixed results so far, the Browns’ quarterback situation will remain a key storyline heading into the regular season.