Browns Rookies Sanders, Gabriel Shine in OTAs, Compete for QB Depth

The Cleveland Browns enter the 2025 NFL season with a highly competitive quarterback battle featuring rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, along with veterans Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco. Sanders, drafted in the fifth round, has impressed coaches and teammates during OTAs with strong performances including a high completion rate and multiple touchdown passes, though he has yet to take first-team reps and remains behind others on the depth chart. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees emphasized that the quarterback competition is still in an early and fluid stage, with all four quarterbacks receiving reps and development opportunities. Statistics from OTAs reveal that Dillon Gabriel completed the most passes, Sanders and Gabriel each threw three touchdowns, Pickett two touchdowns, and Sanders was the only one with an interception, highlighting the balanced competition. Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised the work ethic and maturity of the two rookies, noting their eagerness to learn and compete alongside experienced players. The Browns’ quarterback decision is expected to become clearer as mandatory mini-camps approach, with coaches carefully evaluating all four candidates to determine the best fit for their system.