Cleveland Browns Weigh QB Cuts Amid Rookie RB Additions

The Cleveland Browns are making significant changes to improve their offense in the 2025 season by emphasizing a run-first approach, highlighted by their draft picks of running backs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson, both seen as complementary fits for coach Kevin Stefanski's scheme. The Browns' quarterback situation is highly competitive, with four contenders—Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel—but early indications suggest Flacco is favored to start Week 1 due to his experience and fan support. Kenny Pickett, acquired in a trade, has struggled in OTAs and is widely predicted by analysts to be traded or cut before training camp, serving as an insurance policy rather than a long-term option. Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders, despite hype, appears to be fourth on the depth chart and not currently ready to start, with some insiders cautioning against prematurely crowning him as the starter. The Browns plan to enter training camp with three quarterbacks, focusing on evaluating Sanders and Gabriel as potential long-term solutions while relying on Flacco as a reliable short-term starter. Overall, Cleveland's offseason moves reflect a strategic shift toward a balanced offense anchored by a strong running game and a quarterback competition that remains fluid.