Dillon Gabriel ignites quarterback debate as Cleveland Browns give him first-team spotlight in bold move

The Cleveland Browns may have just kicked off one of the most intriguing quarterback debates of the 2025 NFL offseason.

In a bold move during mandatory minicamp, rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel took first-team reps—signaling that head coach Kevin Stefanski is seriously evaluating his young gunslinger as a potential Week 1 starter. Gabriel, a late-round pick out of Oregon, wasn’t expected to make noise this early. But with Deshaun Watson’s future uncertain and veteran Joe Flacco mentoring the room, Gabriel is seizing the moment.

According to on-field observers, Gabriel looked poised, confident, and surprisingly in command during red zone drills. His timing with the first-team receivers drew praise, and his mobility added a layer the Browns’ offense has been missing. “He’s not acting like a rookie,” one insider said. “He’s attacking the reps like he’s been here for years.”

The move to elevate Gabriel wasn’t made lightly. The Browns currently have a crowded QB room with Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookie Shedeur Sanders all competing for time. But this decision may point to a longer-term vision—one in which the Browns are preparing for life beyond stopgap veterans and leaning into their future.

Head coach Stefanski remained diplomatic when asked about Gabriel’s sudden promotion. “We’re rotating guys. Dillon earned those reps today,” he said. “We want to challenge all of our quarterbacks and see how they respond.”

Gabriel’s response? He’s letting his play do the talking. While it’s still early in the offseason, the buzz is building. Could Cleveland go all-in on the rookie? Or is this a motivational play to fire up the veterans?

One thing’s certain—Dillon Gabriel has entered the quarterback conversation in Cleveland, and he’s not backing down.