Dillon Gabriel Shows Poise in London Loss

After a crowded quarterback battle that included Shedeur Sanders and the benching of veteran Joe Flacco following multiple early-season interceptions, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski started third‑round rookie Dillon Gabriel in Week 5 in London. Gabriel completed 19 of 33 passes for 190 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions for a 94.3 passer rating as Cleveland fell 21‑17 to the Minnesota Vikings after an 80‑yard, game‑sealing drive in the final minute. Reporters and coaches praised Gabriel’s poise and quick decision‑making, noting his effectiveness on quick, short‑to‑intermediate throws. Evaluators also flagged limitations in his deep ball accuracy and third‑down production that could cap his upside. The performance made him one of only four Browns rookies to throw multiple TDs in a first start. Those individual positives coexist with Cleveland’s league‑low marks in points per drive, EPA and TDs per drive, heavy pressure allowed and high drop rates, issues Stefanski must address even if Gabriel stays the starter.