Browns QB Battle and 2026 Draft Strategy Evolve

The Cleveland Browns enter the new season with an unsettled quarterback competition, featuring veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett alongside rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, who unexpectedly fell to the fifth round after first-round projections. Analysts are divided on whether Pickett's mobility and experience give him the edge, while others doubt any current option will secure the long-term starting role. With two potential top-10 first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Browns are positioned to pursue prospects like LSU's Garrett Nussmeier or, if available, Texas' Arch Manning. The impending contract expirations of Flacco and Pickett raise questions about the opportunities Gabriel and Sanders will receive to prove themselves. Some commentators caution that focusing another early draft pick on a quarterback could neglect other urgent roster needs. The Browns' quarterback situation remains one of the most closely watched and unpredictable in the NFL offseason.