The Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition has largely centered on Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson this offseason. However, NFL analyst Lance Reisland believes Dillon Gabriel shouldn't be overlooked as a potential starter.

"The idea that Dillon Gabriel could emerge as the Browns’ starting quarterback isn’t as far-fetched as some people believe," wrote Reisland on his X post. "While I thought Shedeur Sanders did a much better job of impacting the football team during his opportunities, it’s important to remember that Gabriel dealt with many of the same obstacles."

Reisland believes Gabriel remains firmly in the race for the starting job as the Browns prepare to open training camp on July 23 for rookies and July 28 for veterans.

Reisland argued that Gabriel dealt with many of the same obstacles Sanders faced, including inconsistent offensive line play, an unreliable running game, and uneven production from the Browns' pass catchers.

"Again, I believe Sanders was the more impactful player," clarified Reisland on X, "But writing Gabriel off this early doesn’t make much sense. There’s a new offensive system. The offensive line has been addressed. The receiver room is deeper. The tight end room is deeper."

Gabriel went 1-5 as the Browns' starter last season, throwing for 937 yards, seven touchdowns, and completing 59.5% of his passes. However, his concussion opened the door for Shedeur Sanders to play in the final seven games.

Reisland also emphasized that he wasn't advocating for any specific quarterback, only that the best performer should earn the job.

Meanwhile, Gabriel has also found himself in the trading bubble, according to an NFL insider, only if there is a good bargain to be made.

Browns insider gives an inside scoop on Dillon Gabriel

Dillon Gabriel's future in Cleveland could also depend on whether the Browns receive a compelling trade offer, as per Zac Jackson of The Athletic.

"The Browns will only trade Gabriel if they feel they can get something of consequence in return," Jackson wrote. "There’s a scenario in which the primary competitors for the starting job stay healthy and sixth-round rookie Taylen Green makes a real push for a roster spot, forcing the Browns to make a decision on Gabriel in late August."

Gabriel remains under contract through 2028, giving Cleveland another young quarterback under team control even after Watson's deal expires following the 2026 season.

The presence of rookie Taylen Green adds another layer to the competition, making Gabriel's long-term role one of the roster decisions to watch.

Gabriel's draft experience and team-friendly rookie contract could factor into any decision the Browns make about his future.

Do you think Dillon Gabriel is still in the race for QB1? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Sourav Ganguly

Edited by

Rudra Dubey