Browns Under Fire for Giving Dillon Gabriel First-Team Reps Too Soon

Daryl Ruiter has raised a valid concern about the Cleveland Browns' decision to give rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel first-team reps from the start of training camp. Ruiter expressed frustration over the way the Browns are handling Gabriel’s development, pointing out that the rookie is being put in a difficult position far too early.

"They’re putting him in a bad spot. You’re forcing me to evaluate this kid like he’s a 1st-round pick. He’s a 3rd-round pick. It’s clear that you’re trying to prepare him to play," Ruiter said. His comments come in response to the Browns' decision to give Gabriel, a third-round pick, significant first-team reps, despite the fact that the quarterback has yet to prove himself at the NFL level.

Ruiter makes a fair point—Gabriel was not drafted with the high expectations of a first-round quarterback. The Browns did not trade up or use a high-value pick to acquire him, so why are they treating him like a top-tier prospect right away? It’s not as though he has shown the kind of promise that would warrant being thrust into such a critical role, especially when he’s struggling against the Browns' first-team defense.

Critics have raised concerns about the Browns' haste in pushing Gabriel up the depth chart. Despite clear struggles in camp, it seems the Browns' expectation is to fast-track Gabriel to a starting position, which many, including Ruiter, believe is a disservice to the young quarterback.

It's hard to ignore the reality: Gabriel is not ready to lead an NFL offense as a starting quarterback. The Browns’ current approach could be setting him up for failure, with expectations clearly too high for a player still in the early stages of his development.

The Browns’ handling of Gabriel’s progression raises questions about the team’s strategy at the quarterback position. While it’s important to develop young talent, rushing a rookie into a starting role without sufficient preparation could backfire. Gabriel may have a bright future, but it seems premature to treat him as an immediate starter.

As training camp continues, it will be interesting to see how the Browns adjust their approach and whether they scale back their expectations for Gabriel’s immediate role on the team.