Dillon Gabriel takes middle stage this afternoon because the Cleveland Browns face the Philadelphia Eagles of their second preseason sport. The rookie quarterback will begin for Cleveland and has a significant alternative to tilt the quarterback battle in his favor.
The Browns chosen Gabriel within the third spherical of the 2025 NFL Draft after productive stints at Oklahoma and Oregon. Recognized for his mobility, anticipation, and poise, the rookie now faces dwell NFL motion for the primary time. With Deshaun Watson sidelined as a result of a torn Achilles tendon, the Browns quarterback competitors stays extensive open.
Gabriel’s debut carries added intrigue after Fox Sports activities analyst Skip Bayless weighed in on social media forward of kickoff, posting the next onto his X (previously referred to as Twitter) account.
“I watched each snap Dillon Gabriel took for 2 years at Oklahoma. He’s fairly good – slightly higher Tua and he can transfer. BUT HE’S NO SHEDEUR. Cleveland took him 50 slots forward of Shedeur so Gabriel will likely be given each alternative and edge to beat out Shedeur.”
The remark fueled ongoing comparisons between Gabriel and Sanders, the previous Colorado Buffaloes standout quarterback. Cleveland chosen Sanders within the fifth spherical, and though he impressed early in camp and delivered a standout efficiency in Week 1 of the preseason, he has missed time with an indirect damage. He stays within the combine, however the 24-year-old lefty now instructions the highlight.
Cleveland plans to provide Gabriel prolonged reps this afternoon, and head coach Kevin Stefanski has emphasised that efficiency will dictate who wins the backup function. Whereas veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett deliver expertise, the staff is raring to guage their rookie expertise.
If Gabriel reveals command, rhythm, and effectivity, he may achieve separation in a tightly contested battle. His preseason outing this afternoon received’t determine every thing — however it may form the Browns’ plans as Week 1 approaches.
With a lot using on these reps, Cleveland enters this matchup hoping for readability on the sport’s most essential place.