Dillon Gabriel, a 2025 third-round pick for the Cleveland Browns, is notably absent from the team’s media-day content, fueling questions about his status behind Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders in the quarterback competition. While team officials insist Gabriel isn’t forgotten, external signs—such as not appearing in photos and an unsettled jersey number—have fans wondering if he’s fallen out of favor or simply awaiting a final roster decision.
A key issue is Gabriel’s ongoing jersey-number situation. No. 8 has been taken by pass rusher Jared Verse after a trade that sent Myles Garrett to the Rams, leaving Gabriel with limited eligible numbers. NFL rules restrict quarterbacks to Nos. 0–19, and with most numbers occupied, only No. 14 remains available outside retirements (though Otto Graham’s No. 14 is retired). This number scarcity could delay Gabriel’s official number assignment as Cleveland trims its roster.
Beyond the numbers, Gabriel’s future with the Browns hinges on his competition with Sanders and Watson. He started 1–5 as a rookie, with a concussion opening the door for Sanders to win the job. Head coach Todd Monken has emphasized the quarterback depth, noting two starting-level players in Watson and Sanders, while Gabriel works to improve during off-season programs, minicamps, and potential trade opportunities. If a trade isn’t forthcoming, Gabriel may need a strong preseason to alter the team’s depth chart.
Key takeaways:
– Gabriel’s absence from media-day content suggests uncertainty about his roster status and number assignment.
– Jersey-number constraints could delay his official No. 8 replacement, with No. 14 being the only feasible option aside from retired or occupied numbers.
– The quarterback pecking order—Watson, Sanders, then Gabriel—remains the central storyline, with a potential trade as Gabriel’s best path to meaningful playing time.
