The Cleveland Browns made major waves during the 2025 NFL Draft, reshaping their quarterback room with big names and big potential. With five quarterbacks now on the roster, Deshaun Watson, Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, fans are buzzing about how the depth chart could shake out heading into the new season.
Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel Add New Energy to Cleveland’s Quarterback Competition
At the top, it’s still Deshaun Watson’s job to lose. Despite an up-and-down stint with Cleveland, Watson remains the franchise’s major investment. However, behind him, the competition is much more intriguing, especially with the addition of two talented rookies.
Browns’ new QB room:
🏈Deshaun Watson
🏈Kenny Pickett
🏈Joe Flacco
🏈Dillon Gabriel
🏈Shedeur Sanders— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2025
The Browns stunned many by selecting Dillon Gabriel out of Oregon late in the third round, passing over the much-hyped Shedeur Sanders multiple times.
Gabriel, known for his sharp decision-making and mobility, figures to slot in as the early QB3 behind Watson and Pickett. The Browns value Gabriel’s experience and leadership after a prolific college career.
But the biggest story is undoubtedly Shedeur Sanders. After a shocking draft slide that saw him tumble to the fifth round, Cleveland traded up to grab the former Colorado star at No. 144 overall.
Sanders, who lit up college football with 7,364 passing yards, 64 touchdowns, and just 13 interceptions over his final two seasons, is a major steal for the Browns and could be the future face of the franchise.
As for the immediate depth chart, Joe Flacco, who returned to Cleveland after a surprising late-season heroics stint, is likely a stopgap veteran presence. Kenny Pickett, acquired in the offseason, should serve as the primary backup, but his hold on the role isn’t unshakable.
Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders will battle it out for positioning behind the veterans. Gabriel’s earlier selection might give him an initial edge, but Sanders’ upside and natural arm talent will make him hard to keep off the field for long.
Given Watson’s injury history and the uncertainty surrounding Flacco’s age and Pickett’s consistency, Sanders could have a legitimate shot to start games by the end of his rookie season.
The Browns’ new-look quarterback room is one of the NFL’s most fascinating storylines heading into training camp.
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With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies, Cleveland has given itself options and perhaps found its quarterback of the future in Sanders.
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