Browns Face Complex Quarterback Competition with Four Contenders

The Cleveland Browns face a complex quarterback situation heading into the 2025 NFL season, with four contenders vying for the starting role: veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, along with rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Flacco, who led the Browns to a strong finish in 2023 and knows the team's offense well, is currently viewed as the frontrunner and a reliable short-term option, while Pickett's future with the team remains uncertain despite his trade to Cleveland and prior starting experience. The Browns’ strategy includes developing their rookies behind a seasoned quarterback to maintain competitiveness, but the overall quarterback instability has led to speculation that the team might revisit the position aggressively in the 2026 draft. Complicating matters further is Deshaun Watson's status; though still under contract, the Browns prefer that he sit out the season due to injury concerns and cap implications, as his return could disrupt their quarterback plans. General manager Andrew Berry's recent moves, including trading down in the 2025 draft to gain future assets, suggest the franchise is preparing for continued quarterback challenges beyond this season. This quarterback uncertainty comes after a disappointing 3-14 season and ongoing trade requests, underscoring the Browns' need for stability at the position to improve their prospects.