Browns Rookies Gabriel, Sanders Compete in Crowded QB Room

The Cleveland Browns have a crowded quarterback room featuring two rookies, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, along with veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, all competing for the starting job in 2025. Despite being drafted later, former NFL GM Mike Tannenbaum believes Sanders should start over Gabriel due to his better pro body and potential, though Gabriel currently holds a higher spot on the depth chart. Gabriel has expressed a positive relationship with Sanders and appreciates the diversity and learning opportunities from the veteran quarterbacks in the room. Kenny Pickett's hamstring injury has increased Gabriel's chances to start sooner, positioning him alongside Flacco as the likely Week One starters. The Browns are using this season to evaluate their quarterback options, with potential long-term solutions possibly emerging from Gabriel or Sanders before the 2026 draft. Both rookies are focused on growth and competition within a quarterback group that lacks a clear franchise leader at this time.