Browns’ QB Controversy Heats Up: “I Just Don’t See It On the Field” — Camp Insider Questions Dillon Gabriel Hype

As the Cleveland Browns push for Dillon Gabriel to be their starting quarterback early in the season, the narrative surrounding the rookie’s camp performance is beginning to show cracks. Despite glowing reviews from the organization regarding Gabriel’s “processing” ability and his supposed edge over other quarterbacks, not all players and coaches are convinced.

Mac Blank, a member of the Browns' coaching staff, voiced his doubts publicly, expressing frustration over the disconnect between Gabriel’s praise and his actual performance during camp.

“The Browns keep echoing how great his ‘processing’ is and how he is miles ahead of Shedeur… I just don’t see it on the field,” Blank said, shaking his head in disbelief.

The comments come as the coaching staff and management are pushing hard for Gabriel to make an early impact. The 2025 season is shaping up to be a critical one for the Browns, and the hope is that the former college star can translate his potential into immediate success at the NFL level. But Blank’s sentiment suggests a deeper concern: the transition from college to the pros isn’t as seamless as the front office would like fans to believe.

Mixed Messages from Training Camp
While the Browns have consistently praised Gabriel’s football intelligence and claimed that he is well ahead of other rookies, these reports haven’t been entirely in line with his on-field performance. Observers within the organization are reportedly split, with some excited about his future, while others question whether he’s truly ready to lead the team.

Gabriel, who had a stellar college career, now faces the ultimate test in the NFL. But the pressure is mounting, and with several key preseason games on the horizon, fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on how the rookie develops.

The Battle for QB1

The debate surrounding Gabriel’s readiness only intensifies when placed in the context of his competition. Shedeur Sanders, another promising rookie quarterback, has been considered by many to be a more polished and ready-to-play option. However, Gabriel’s supposed edge in mental processing and his ability to pick up the offense quickly continue to be touted as his advantages.

Despite the internal doubts, the Browns appear committed to giving Gabriel every opportunity to start in the 2025 season opener. But as Blank's candid comments suggest, the road ahead may be bumpier than originally anticipated.

With both Gabriel and Sanders pushing for a starting role, one thing is clear: the QB competition in Cleveland is far from over, and all eyes will be on the rookies as the team heads into the regular season.