It’s not looking good for the Cleveland Browns this season with a 1-3 record. Their recent loss was on September 28, 34-19 against the Detroit Lions. The Browns seem to be struggling with their offensive play. They committed three turnovers in their last game, taking their turnover ratio to -6, and they really need to analyse their gameplay. Believing a change would help, the Browns have been considering replacing their veteran QB with a new energy QB.
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Joe Flacco has been the Browns’ QB for some time. This year, however, his gameplay has not benefited the team. In four of the matches he played, he only recorded one TD. As his performance weighs heavily on the Cleavelands, coach Kevin Stefanski has made a bold decision. They are benching Flacco for rookie QB, Dillon Gabriel. This has someone from the NFL world chime in. Former Vikings wide receiver Ben Leber took to his X account to discuss this. He posted, “With Dillion Gabriel starting, expect to see the same game plan as Rodgers. Gabriel is known to be very quick and accurate with short/intermediate throws. He has enough legs to get outside the pocket as well. We have to challenge better at the LOS.”
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Dillon Gabriel is set to make his first QB start in London. But even before he starts, coach Stefanski is all praises for the rookie. “From the second he’s been here, he’s been working very hard, very intelligent young man”, he said. The rookie earns every bit of it after his debut performance this season. His first appearance was in week 2 against the Ravens. He completed all three of his passes and threw his first TD pass this season. Judging from his performance, he has always been ready to take the role.
With Dillion Gabriel starting, expect to see the same gameplan as Rodgers.
Gabriel is known to be very quick and accurate with short/intermediate throws. He has enough legs to get outside the pocket as well.
We have to challenge better at the LOS— Ben Leber (@nacholeber) September 30, 2025
Sports writer and former NFL player,
Bucky Brooks, has broken down Gabriel’s skill set recently. Appearing on an interview, he added, “Gabriel is an experienced player. Quick rhythm passer, has some dual threat ability, and can get on the edges.” He also believed that the rookie QB could easily attack with his arms and legs, but his height might be an issue against the “big bodies.” While he looks great for a rookie, comparing him with Aaron Rodgers’ game plan is a bit too far. Known for being the greatest passer in the league, Rodgers’ skill set is diverse. He is accurate and disciplined. His focused passes have led Green Bay to victory in Super Bowl XLV.But
was Gabriel Stefanski’s only option? Not when Shedeur Sanders is also on the roster.Why is Shedeur Sanders not the final choice
Shedeur Sanders is the Browns’ third-string QB. But with Gabriel starting in London, Sanders still remains where he was. An emergency QB. While some had thought he might climb the ladder, the Browns have placed Joe Flacco as their primary backup. So even if Gabriel doesn’t play for some reason, Flacco will be back on the field. It looks like Coach Stefanski is waiting for the right time to let Shedeur shine on the field.The Browns are clearly not swayed by the fact that Sanders is the son of
coach Prime. Drafted in the fifth round, Sanders’ performance in the preseason was a mix of highs and lows. His week 1 looked promising, where he threw two TDs against the Panthers. But not when he played in week 3. He was sacked five times by the Rams. He barely completed any passes, 3 out of 6 for just 14 yards. As per analysts, he had ‘below average mobility’ with a ‘high sack rate’Fans will have to wait some time before they see Shedeur on the field. Until that happens, Gabriel will make his first NFL start in London.
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