Dillon Gabriel

Gabriel is firmly QB2/3 in Cleveland behind Shedeur Sanders, who took over as starter in the final weeks of 2025 and is the clear franchise QB going forward. His last three games showed 0-2% snap share, confirming he has no path to meaningful snaps barring injury.

Reports from beat writers explicitly label Gabriel as 'expendable' as the Browns commit to Sanders. With Watson also occupying a roster spot (due to cap reasons), Gabriel is the most cuttable QB on the roster heading into 2026 camp.

Browns insider Zac Jackson reports Cleveland will likely trade Gabriel after his rookie season, making him the odd man out in a QB room with Sanders, Watson, and potentially a draft pick. His connection to fired coach Kevin Stefanski eliminates his internal advocate.

Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot specifically flagged Gabriel as potential 'trade currency around the Aug. 26 roster cutdown date.' With four QBs on the roster and Watson/Sanders leading the competition, Gabriel is on the roster bubble.

Deshaun Watson has a documented injury history; if sidelined for extended stretches, Gabriel could inherit significant starting opportunities and prove his value in a live game environment.

At 25 years old with limited NFL exposure, Gabriel still has developmental runway and could emerge as a competent starter if given extended playing time, making him a lottery-ticket hold for patient dynasty investors.

Multiple reports suggest Gabriel would benefit from a fresh start elsewhere. A trade to a QB-needy team could provide a clearer developmental path and renewed opportunity, though likely as a backup or camp competitor.

If cut at the Aug. 26 deadline, a 25-year-old QB with starting NFL experience (6 starts, 937 yards, 7 TDs) could attract interest from QB-needy teams as a QB2 or developmental starter — meaningfully more valuable dynasty-wise than being buried on Cleveland's bench.

Shedeur Sanders is a rookie entering a new scheme with a new coaching staff. A rocky start in 2026 training camp or preseason could theoretically reopen the competition, though current reporting suggests the Browns are committed to Sanders regardless of early bumps.