Gabriel entered the NFL with promise as a third-round pick last year, and his recent performance hints at a potential, if limited, path to meaningful NFL action. Coaches and analysts have noted that the No. 1 job is clearly narrowed to a two-man competition between Watson and Sanders. Still, Gabriel’s grasp of the offense, process, and decision-making could help him secure a backup role if he continues to develop. A capable backup is particularly valuable behind a veteran starter and a high-upside prospect, especially if the team believes the supporting cast — including the offensive line and playmakers — can be upgraded to better support a young quarterback.
A prominent Browns beat writer offered an optimistic read on Gabriel’s offseason. The assessment highlighted his strong approach during organized team activities and minicamp, praising his ability to process information quickly and manage the game with poise. The writer suggested that Gabriel’s skill set could translate into a solid starting performance if circumstances required him to step in, though the more likely outcome is continued competition for the third quarterback spot. The analysis noted that an improved supporting cast — more protection for the quarterback and a stronger overall offense — would likely elevate Gabriel’s effectiveness.
Last season, Gabriel started six games, a stretch many viewed as underwhelming. He finished with a 1-5 record as a starter, compiling 937 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and two interceptions, while posting a quarterback rating around 80.8. Advanced analytics placed him toward the bottom of the quarterback group, underscoring the challenges of transitioning to a higher level of play without a consistently effective supporting cast. Despite the tough results, the evaluation emphasized that Gabriel possesses qualities such as solid processing and game management that could be leveraged more effectively with improved offensive line play and better teammates around him.
The Browns’ quarterback room also includes Taylen Green, a younger, more athletic prospect selected in the recent draft. Green is still raw, with notable turnover tendencies but also impressive physical tools: a 6-foot-6 frame, a strong throwing arm, and natural instincts as a runner. The organization faces a delicate balance between developing Green and managing the roster in a way that preserves flexibility for 2024 and beyond. Keeping Green on the roster raises questions about how to allocate three or four quarterbacks on a 53-man squad. The practical challenge is that carrying four quarterbacks can strain other positions and cap space, yet placing Green on the practice squad leaves him vulnerable to being signed away by another team that might see him as ready for a larger role.
From a strategic standpoint, the Browns face a decision: should they maximize the potential return by trading Gabriel, or prioritize developing Green and maintaining a stable quarterback pipeline? If Gabriel performs well enough to warrant a trade in late summer, the team could pursue a draft-equivalent return that helps balance the roster while preserving Watson, Sanders, and Green. On the other hand, if Green shows enough promise during training camp and the preseason, the Browns might prefer to hold him on the roster and evaluate him in live-action scenarios, such as short-yardage and goal-line situations, before considering any trades.
Analysts have suggested two plausible pathways. One is to trade Gabriel, particularly if he earns the third QB role, in exchange for a draft asset or one that helps the team immediately across other needs. The other is to keep Gabriel in reserve, either as a reliable backup or as a potential upgrade option should the incumbent starter need a brief spell on the sidelines. The Browns’ front office will weigh the value of Gabriel’s experience against Green’s upside and the overall roster construction as the summer progresses toward the preseason and the cut-down to 53 players.
Ultimately, the Browns’ approach to the quarterback room will aim to maximize depth while maintaining flexibility. Watson provides stability at the top, and Sanders represents a high-upside backup or successor potential. Gabriel’s development will be closely watched, as his performance in camp and preseason could influence whether he remains as a trusted third quarterback or becomes a trade asset to bolster other areas of the roster. Green’s trajectory will also be critical; his ability to translate athletic potential into practical NFL execution will determine whether the Browns can maintain a robust, versatile quarterback group that can adapt to various game situations.
In summary, while the starting job is largely settled between Watson and Sanders, Dillon Gabriel’s future with the Browns remains a meaningful storyline. A strong offseason and camp performance could help him secure a stable backup role, especially if the team believes a more competent offensive line and upgraded weapons will enable him to function more effectively in meaningful moments. If not, strategic moves involving Green and potential trades could redefine the quarterback landscape for the Browns as they approach the forthcoming season.
