Browns Name Joe Flacco Starter, Rookies Gabriel Sanders Await Opportunity

The Cleveland Browns have named veteran Joe Flacco as their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season opener, with coach Kevin Stefanski praising his preparedness and leadership. Despite Flacco's starting role, Browns insiders and analysts suggest his tenure as the starter may be short-lived if his performance falters, as rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are poised to take over if given the opportunity. Hall of Famer Cris Carter highlighted the significant pressure on Gabriel, noting that fans and the team may quickly move past him in favor of Sanders if Gabriel struggles, reflecting the Browns' unsettled quarterback situation. Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot confirmed the team's willingness to bench Flacco for Gabriel if turnovers or sacks become an issue, while also acknowledging Sanders could see playing time later in the season as he gains experience. The Browns' quarterback room, cleared of Kenny Pickett and Tyler Huntley, thus remains competitive and uncertain, with a potential need for a franchise quarterback in future drafts if none of the current options prove sustainable. Overall, the Browns face a critical quarterback battle that will significantly impact their 2025 campaign and beyond.