Browns predicted to pursue ex-Packers QB as Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel replacement

Matt Sullivan

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Browns predicted to pursue ex-Packers QB as Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel replacement image

The Cleveland Browns are in the middle of a head coaching search, and the new coach, whether it's an offensive or defensive-minded coach, will need to make a big decision right away.

Currently, the quarterback room is led by Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, with the starter for 2026 still very much up in the air. But neither might be the starter if the new coach has a target in mind. And this offseason, there's one interesting name.

As ESPN's Jeremy Fowler predicts, the Browns could pursue a former Green Bay Packers quarterback, Malik Willis, this offseason as a replacement for Sanders and Gabriel. 

Browns predicted to sign Malik Willis to replace Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel

"Malik Willis to the Dolphins or Browns," Fowler predicts. While the Miami Dolphins make a lot of sense, with their Packers' brain trust in charge, the Browns have reason to go after Willis this offseason.

As one NFC personnel man said, "I just don't think (the Browns) go into the season with Shedeur (Sanders) as their top option, and getting the right quarterback in the draft isn't a guarantee based on where they pick."

With draft picks at 6th and 24th overall, the Browns will likely miss out on the top quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, and their other options aren't that great.

Ty Simpson and Trinidad Chambliss are interesting options, but for where the Browns are at, they'd be better off adding to their offense and looking to free agency or next year's draft to add a quarterback.

More: Shedeur Sanders looked every bit a fifth-round pick to close out the season

And if they decide to go after a QB in this year's free agent class, there isn't a better option than Willis. He's flashed in his limited action as a starter for the Packers the last few seasons.

He had two opportunities this season, and while he lost both games, he played well in both. He showed he can be one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league, as he can scramble like the best QBs in the league, and has an arm that's good enough to start.

If the Browns don't want to draft a quarterback, Willis is by far their best option in free agency or the trade market. Lamar Jackson is rumored to be available for trade, but the Baltimore Ravens would never trade him in their division.

Fowler predicts that Willis will go to either the Browns or the Dolphins, and while Miami might have the stronger pull, if the Browns want him, they have ample reason to splurge on Willis this offseason.

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Senior Editor