Rookie Minicamp Sparks New QB Era

The Cleveland Browns made waves in the NFLDraft-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>2025 NFL Draft by selecting quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel (Oregon) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) in back-to-back rounds. With Deshaun Watson's career in question after a second Achilles injury, these rookies now compete against veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett for starting honors.

Scouting the Rookie Contenders

Dillon Gabriel: The Polished Prospect

Gabriel brings 6 years of college experience with 18,722 passing yards and 155 touchdowns. Coaches praise his tight spirals and precise throws during minicamp drills. His experience in multiple offensive systems makes him NFL-ready, though some question his arm strength against elite defenses.

Shedeur Sanders: The Electric Wild Card

Sanders surprised analysts by falling to the fifth round despite his 74% college completion rate. His minicamp performance showcased deep-ball accuracy and natural leadership. While needing technical refinement, Sanders' chemistry with rookie RB Quinshon Judkins hints at explosive potential.

Coaching Challenges and Strategies

Head coach Kevin Stefanski faces tough decisions in managing four QBs. Current plans include:

- Rotating first-team reps between Gabriel and Sanders

- Evaluating game management under pressure

- Balancing short-term wins with long-term development

Preseason Showdown Factors

Three key elements will decide the QB battle:

1. Performance against blitz packages

2. Red zone efficiency

3. Leadership during two-minute drills

Financial and Roster Implications

With Gabriel's $6.2 million contract and Sanders' rookie deal, Cleveland maintains flexibility. However, roster limits mean one QB could be traded before Week 1. Both rookies must prove their value during preseason games against Panthers, Eagles, and Rams.

Expert Predictions

NFL analysts remain divided:

- Scouts praise Gabriel's consistency

- Executives admire Sanders' upside

- Coaches emphasize the importance of preseason performances

The Road to Week 1

As training camp approaches, all eyes remain on Cleveland's quarterback competition. Whether the Browns choose Gabriel's reliability or Sanders' star power, this battle could define the franchise's next decade.