The High-Stakes Quarterback Shuffle

With Deshaun Watson's career in limbo after a second Achilles tear, the Cleveland Browns are rewriting their playbook. Their 2025 draft picks - Shedeur Sanders (5th round) and Dillon Gabriel (3rd round) - reveal a bold strategy: chase superstar potential while locking down reliable depth. Let's break down how this rookie duo could reshape the franchise.

Shedeur Sanders: Legacy Talent With Questions

The Colorado standout entered draft season as a potential first-rounder after lighting up college football (74% completion, 4,134 yards, 37 TDs in 2024). But NFL scouts cooled on Sanders for three key reasons:

• Inconsistent deep-ball accuracy (48% completion on 20+ yard throws)
• Protection concerns behind Cleveland's rebuilt O-line
• Legacy pressure as Deion Sanders' son

Browns GM Andrew Berry calls him "the ultimate value pick" - a $1.2M gamble that could pay franchise-quarterback dividends.

Dillon Gabriel: The Safe Bet With Hidden Upside

Oregon's record-setting transfer brings a different skillset:

• Pro-ready RPO execution (72.9% completion in 2024)
• Lightning-fast release (2.3 seconds average)
• Proven durability (39 consecutive starts)

At 5'11", Gabriel faces typical size concerns but told reporters: "I play tall in the pocket." Coaches already praise his ability to command the huddle.

Training Camp Battleground

The rookie showdown features stark contrasts:

Sanders' Progress Report

• + Improved footwork in 7-step drops
• - Struggles reading disguised coverages
• + Natural chemistry with WR Elijah Moore

Gabriel's Early Edge

• + Mastered 65% of playbook pre-camp
• - Limited arm strength on out routes
• + First to arrive/last to leave facility

The Veteran Wild Card

While Joe Flacco (1-year/$4.5M) remains the presumed bridge starter, insiders note:

• Kenny Pickett's $2.3M contract has zero guaranteed money
• Team option on Watson's deal voids after 2025
• Only $8.2M dead cap hit if cutting Flacco before Week 1

Front Office Calculus

Cleveland's QB strategy reveals three clear objectives:

1. Keep financial flexibility for 2026 reset
2. Evaluate both rookies in real NFL situations
3. Maintain competitive floor in tough AFC North

As offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey put it: "We're not handing anyone trophies in August. This is about who can make plays when the Steelers' TJ Watt is breathing down their neck."

2025 Season Implications

The Browns face a fascinating timeline:

• Week 1-4: Flacco starts unless rookies dominate preseason
• Week 5-8: Potential Gabriel "prove-it" window
• Week 9+: Sanders audition period if team falls from contention

The Bottom Line

Cleveland's QB room combines calculated risk with financial pragmatism. If either rookie delivers starter-quality play, the Browns gain $35M+ in cap flexibility for 2026. If both fail? Another reboot looms for a franchise that's started 34 different QBs since 1999.