The Cleveland Browns’ rookie quarterbacks, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, are experiencing a significant transition as they adapt to their roles as backups in the NFL. Having previously held starting positions throughout their football careers, they now find themselves on the sidelines, observing veteran quarterback Joe Flacco during games. Flacco is set to play in his 198th NFL game at M&T Bank Stadium, leaving Gabriel and Sanders to adjust to a new reality.
Quarterbacks coach Bill Musgrave addressed the challenges faced by Gabriel and Sanders on September 12, 2023. “Neither of these guys have ever not been the guy, and that happens a lot with guys who enter the NFL,” he stated. Musgrave noted that both players have embraced the transition, immersing themselves in the game plan and dedicating time to drill work. They also participate in scout team reps to maintain their skills, as Gabriel is one play away from stepping in, while Sanders is two plays away.
Gabriel was drafted in the third round as the 94th overall pick, while Sanders was selected in the fifth round as the 144th pick. Despite their promising starts, the initial weeks have required an adjustment period.
### Preseason Performance and Team Dynamics
Sanders had a notable preseason, participating in two games in August. He completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns in a win against the Panthers. However, he did not play against the Eagles and had a more challenging outing against the Rams, completing 3 of 6 passes for just 14 yards while facing five sacks.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed before the Rams game that Flacco would start, designating Gabriel as the backup and Sanders as the third quarterback. Sanders played the entire second half against the Rams. He was replaced by Tyler Huntley with just over two minutes left in the game as the Browns sought to regain the lead. Huntley successfully led a drive culminating in a 37-yard field goal by Andre Szmyt, securing a 19-17 victory.
Following the game, Sanders expressed initial disappointment for not being on the field during the final drive. Nonetheless, he recognized the learning opportunities his current role provides. “There’s a lot to learn from this preseason, but I’m really thankful for the opportunity to be out there,” Sanders commented. “Day by day, rep by rep, I’ll keep learning and getting better.”
### Future Outlook for the Browns
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has indicated a desire to see both Gabriel and Sanders play during the regular season. As the team evaluates Flacco’s performance, they face the critical task of determining whether either rookie could be their long-term solution at quarterback or if they will need to pursue a new prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The upcoming season presents not only challenges for Gabriel and Sanders but also opportunities to shape their careers in a competitive environment. Their experiences as backups will be vital as they work towards future roles in the league, making the most of the lessons learned during this transitional phase.
