### Cleveland Browns' Quarterback Competition Heats Up: Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel in the Spotlight The Cleveland Browns are currently navigating a highly competitive quarterback situation as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. With the addition of rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, alongside veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, the team is facing a unique challenge in determining their starting quarterback. This competition has garnered significant attention, with insiders suggesting that the Browns may be looking to move on from one of their current signal-callers, potentially Flacco or Pickett, as they evaluate the performance of their younger talent during organized team activities (OTAs) [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-14764905/shedeur-sanders-cleveland-browns-dillon-gabriel-joe-flacco.html]. ### Breakdown of the Quarterback Competition 1. **Current Roster Dynamics**: - The Browns' quarterback room includes Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett, creating a diverse mix of experience and youth [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/cleveland-browns-intense-quarterback-competition-shedeur-sanders-dillon-gabriel-joe-flacco-kenny-pickett-kevin-stefanski-2025]. - Coach Kevin Stefanski is emphasizing a fair competition, where snaps will be allocated based on performance rather than seniority [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/ryan_clark_believes_kenny_pickett_is_the_frontrunner_for_the_browns_starting_qb_job_over_shedeur_sanders/s1_17667_42250424]. 2. **Performance Insights**: - Reports indicate that both Sanders and Gabriel have been impressive during OTAs, with Sanders particularly standing out among the rookies [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/shedeur-sanders-standing-out-cleveland-browns-quarterback-competition-ota-colorado-buffaloes-kenny-pickett]. - Dillon Gabriel has also been noted for his strong performances, leading some analysts to suggest he may currently have the edge over Sanders [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/report-dillon-gabriel-ahead-shedeur-232728220.html]. 3. **Veteran Presence**: - Joe Flacco, a seasoned veteran, is seen as a potential starter due to his familiarity with the offense, but his age and recent performance raise questions about his long-term viability [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/cleveland-browns-shedeur-sanders-kenny-pickett-trade-quarterback-competition-cut-ota-reps-joe-flacco]. - Kenny Pickett, despite being a former first-round pick, is viewed by some as the odd man out in this competition, with analysts suggesting he may not fit into the team's future plans [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/browns-veteran-predicted-odd-man-012503506.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Quarterback Performance Metrics**: - **Shedeur Sanders**: Impressive work ethic and adaptability noted by analysts, with comparisons to Tom Brady's early career [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/2_time_super_bowl_champion_compares_shedeur_sanders_who_hasnt_played_a_single_game_in_nfl_to_tom_brady/s1_17325_42247819]. - **Dillon Gabriel**: Reported to be ahead in practice performance, showcasing strong potential as a starter [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/report-dillon-gabriel-ahead-shedeur-232728220.html]. - **Joe Flacco**: Previous success in Stefanski's system, winning Comeback Player of the Year in 2023, adds to his credibility [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/ryan_clark_believes_kenny_pickett_is_the_frontrunner_for_the_browns_starting_qb_job_over_shedeur_sanders/s1_17667_42250424]. ### Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the Browns' Quarterback Battle In summary, the Cleveland Browns are facing a pivotal moment in their franchise's future as they evaluate their quarterback options. The competition among Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett is shaping up to be one of the most intense in recent memory. 1. **Key Takeaway**: The Browns are likely to prioritize performance over experience in their decision-making process. 2. **Future Implications**: The outcome of this competition could significantly influence the team's trajectory in the upcoming season and beyond. 3. **Final Note**: As OTAs continue, all eyes will be on how these quarterbacks perform under pressure, with the potential for surprising decisions as the team moves closer to the regular season [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/cleveland-browns-intense-quarterback-competition-shedeur-sanders-dillon-gabriel-joe-flacco-kenny-pickett-kevin-stefanski].