The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation is under intense scrutiny as fans debate the immediate roles of promising young talents Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders against the seasoned veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett. Despite public eagerness to see the rookies take the field, a recent analysis suggests the team is wise to exercise patience, focusing on critical developmental areas during training camp.
Veteran NFL analyst Lance Reisland of the Cleveland Plain Dealer meticulously reviewed recent training camp film, concluding that both Gabriel and Sanders require significant improvement before being considered for a starting role, particularly against a formidable opponent like the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1. This assessment provides insight into the Browns’ strategic approach to their quarterback depth chart.
Reisland highlighted specific challenges for Dillon Gabriel, noting his struggles with consistent delivery from a condensed pocket, largely attributed to his height limitations. His film review revealed difficulties in locating intermediate routes through traffic, often leading to elevated trajectories and late throws, impacting accuracy and timing.
Gabriel’s most effective plays reportedly come off wide-zone boot action, where the launch points are moved, and throwing lanes remain clear, allowing him to utilize his athleticism. However, for sustained success in a pro-style offense, Gabriel must significantly improve his pocket presence, maintaining active, balanced feet to slide and locate clean throwing windows, especially in traditional drop-back scenarios.
On the other hand, Shedeur Sanders, once projected as a first-round talent, has seen his draft stock fall to the fifth round due to aspects of his pre-draft process. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has subtly indicated that Sanders currently ranks as the club’s fourth option at quarterback, underscoring the substantial ground he needs to cover during Cleveland’s preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers.
Sanders’ strengths lie in his ability to synchronize his footwork with his progression, delivering throws with velocity and precision when his base is clean and he effectively transfers weight through his hips. This synergy is crucial for consistent accuracy and power in his throws.
Conversely, Reisland observed that when Sanders’ primary read is covered or taken away post-snap, he frequently resorts to arm-only mechanics, drifting backward without engaging his lower half. This flaw significantly limits both the zip and location on his throws, particularly on intermediate routes against match coverage, demanding a fundamental adjustment to his throwing motion.
Both on-platform and off-platform, Sanders is advised to finish his throws with proper hip engagement, transferring weight forward to maintain control and accuracy, a critical step for his NFL development. Meanwhile, veteran Joe Flacco is operating at a high level, displaying excellent structure and rhythm within the offense, making him the clear frontrunner for the Week 1 start against the Bengals on September 7th.
While the Browns, holding multiple 2026 first-round draft picks, may eventually look to integrate Gabriel and Sanders into game action during the 2025 season, the immediate focus remains on their development. The team’s deliberate approach reflects a commitment to nurturing their young quarterback talents for future success, rather than prematurely thrusting them into high-pressure situations.
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