The Draft Shockwave

The Cleveland Browns made NFLDraft-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>2025 NFL Draft history by selecting two quarterbacks - Shedeur Sanders (5th round) and Dillon Gabriel (3rd round) - to compete for the starting role. With Deshaun Watson's career in limbo after a second Achilles tear, Cleveland's front office is gambling on athletic potential and scheme Versatility to rebuild their offense.

Rookie Profiles

Shedeur Sanders: Legacy & Potential

Son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, the Colorado product enters the league with mixed reviews. His 2023 season featured 27 touchdowns against just 3 interceptions, but scouts questioned his arm strength and pressure decisions. The Browns are banking on his clutch gene, best shown in his game-winning 43-yard Hail Mary against Baylor.

Dillon Gabriel: The Proven Performer

College football's most experienced quarterback brings 18,423 career passing yards and 153 touchdowns from three programs. Gabriel's 2024 Big Ten championship season at Oregon (13-1 record) showcased pro-ready skills despite height concerns. His FBS-record 63 starts and 166.6 passer rating last year made him a draft steal.

Training Camp Battleground

Cleveland's QB room features veteran insurance in Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, but the real drama centers on the rookies. Early reports from ESPN's Tony Grossi suggest Gabriel is "showing better command" in minicamps, while Sanders' mobility creates explosive play potential.

Preseason Showdown

All eyes will be on August 8th's preseason opener against Carolina. Coaches want to see how Sanders handles NFL-speed pass rushes and if Gabriel can maintain accuracy against complex coverages. The battle could determine both the Week 1 starter and the franchise's long-term direction.

Front Office Calculus

With $62 million in cap space and Watson's $230 million contract complicating roster decisions, Cleveland's dual-QB draft strategy offers financial flexibility. Sanders' fifth-round selection allows developmental time, while Gabriel's third-round status suggests higher immediate expectations.

Key Factors to Watch

• Sanders' ability to progress through NFL reads
• Gabriel's red zone efficiency against larger defenders
• Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey's scheme adaptation
• Watson's rehabilitation timeline implications