Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel picked up his first NFL win as a starter in a 31–6 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Oct. 19, a milestone he hopes is only the beginning of a long career.
The former Oregon Ducks standout has taken control of Cleveland’s offense since Joe Flacco was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 7.
His composure and steady play have impressed not only his coach but also NFL legend Terry Bradshaw, who voiced early confidence in the young left-hander’s future.
Gabriel’s growing role, however, comes as fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders continues to wait for his opportunity behind him. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski recently offered clarity on the team’s approach with both quarterbacks, underscoring that Gabriel remains the priority for now.
Gabriel earning trust as Sanders develops behind him
During Sunday’s broadcast, Fox Sports analyst and Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw offered a strong endorsement of Gabriel’s potential, saying,
“Dillon Gabriel... A young, left-handed rookie. I like him a lot, I think he’s gonna be a star in the league.”
Since taking over as Cleveland’s starter, Gabriel has completed 61 of 103 passes (59.2%) for 517 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions across three starts.
He has been sacked 10 times but avoided turnovers, something head coach Kevin Stefanski credits as a key factor in Cleveland’s recent success.
“First half especially was some tough conditions for both sides... We were plus four today. I don’t think we’ve turned it over the last three weeks. And that’s a recipe for winning football,” Stefanski said after the Dolphins win.
The Browns are 1–2 since Gabriel stepped into the starting role, with the rookie showing flashes of poise but still searching for more consistency.
Despite limited offensive production, just 116 passing yards in the Miami win, he has managed games effectively and avoided costly errors.
Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders, a fifth-round pick and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, remains the backup. Stefanski confirmed that Sanders has not been receiving first-team reps like Gabriel once did under Flacco.
“With a young quarterback, with Dillon starting, you want to make sure he gets a lot of the reps. It’s different when you have a veteran with Joe,” Stefanski explained, adding that Sanders is “still getting reps in a bunch of periods.”
Browns HC Kevin Stefanski said that rookie QB Shedeur Sanders hasn't been getting practice reps with the first-team offense like Dillon Gabriel did when Joe Flacco was the starter because "with a young quarterback, with Dillon starting, you want to make sure he gets a lot of the…
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) October 22, 2025
Cleveland insider Mary Kay Cabot recently cautioned that the team will need to see more from Gabriel soon, noting,
“What they have going on right now... It is not working. It’s unsustainable and must change.”
Gabriel’s efficient but conservative play has kept Cleveland steady, though questions linger about whether Sanders might get a chance later this season.
For now, Stefanski’s trust and Bradshaw’s praise suggest the Browns are content letting Gabriel continue to lead while Sanders develops in the background.
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