One win in five starts should simplify an opponent’s game plan, but for the Baltimore Ravens, Dillon Gabriel’s struggles are creating more work, not less. For John Harbaugh’s Ravens, game planning for the 2-7 Cleveland Browns has become unexpectedly complex, and the reason isn’t the man starting under center; it’s the one waiting on the sideline.

Recently, Kevin Stefanski confirmed that rookie Dillon Gabriel will start against the Ravens. But we know that Sanders could suit up if the situation changes. This potential QB switch now forces John Harbaugh and his staff to expand their game plan, a task Baltimore’s defense has already begun tackling. Recently, Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr also confirmed they are not sleeping on Sanders.

“Definitely. We always look at that. Our scouts do a great job of preparing us [for] who could possibly be coming into the game, and we always do that with backup quarterbacks, because you want to know what you could potentially be facing. So, we’ve definitely done some work on [Shedeur Sanders both] last game and getting ready for this game.”

So far, Sanders has played only one game. And he still might not get another real shot anytime soon. After the Joe Flacco trade, Stefanski seems locked in on developing Gabriel. Therefore, the Browns are pushing Sanders deeper down the line while they try to fix the offense through patience and reps.

Gabriel has a passer rating of 80.4 with 869 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions in 7 games this season. Still, the Browns cannot find a steady footing. His hesitations in the red zone slow down drives. Yet, Stefanski keeps saying Gabriel is learning the speed of the league.

This puts Sanders in a tougher spot because every snap Gabriel gets, Sanders waits longer. And the situation might get worse.

Shedeur Sanders might face more QB competition

The Browns have already stirred things up at quarterback. Now Shedeur Sanders sits as the No. 2 behind Dillon Gabriel. And some around the Dawg Pound believe Sanders deserves a real shot, especially with Gabriel sitting at 1-4 as the starter.

But here comes another twist. Reporter Josh Edwards dropped a 2026 mock draft that caught everyone off guard. He predicts the Browns will land the No. 4 pick and take Oregon quarterback Dante Moore.

That move would instantly shake up the room and add another challenger for Sanders. Edwards even explained the full picture in his piece.

“Cleveland would be choosing between Alabama’s Ty Simpson and Moore in this scenario. It’s also worth noting that all three quarterbacks mentioned so far still have remaining eligibility. If the Browns can finally land their quarterback of the future, years of frustration will be forgotten. Shedeur Sanders will start at some point this season, but the reality is he couldn’t do enough to deter the franchise from drafting a quarterback.”

So Sanders may soon face another battle. However, the fans keep asking to start Sanders. The push from the fans is real, but the team is not budging yet.