### Browns Adjust Quarterback Roster Ahead of Crucial Week 17 Clash with Steelers The Cleveland Browns are making significant roster adjustments as they prepare for their Week 17 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. With injuries affecting key players, the Browns have elevated quarterback Bailey Zappe and tight end Sal Cannella from the practice squad to bolster their lineup. This decision comes in light of uncertainties surrounding the health of current quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Harold Fannin Jr., both of whom are listed as questionable for the game. The Browns are looking to solidify their quarterback position as they navigate the final weeks of the season, aiming for a strong performance against their division rivals, the Steelers [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/browns-qb-move-week-17-022955266.html][https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2025/12/with-harold-fannin-jr-and-dillon-gabriel-questionable-browns-elevate-qb-bailey-zappe-and-te-sal-canella-from-the-practice-squad.html]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation and Roster Changes 1. **Injury Concerns**: - The Browns are facing injury issues with key players, particularly at the quarterback position. Dillon Gabriel and Harold Fannin Jr. are both questionable for the upcoming game [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/browns-roster-move-qb-position-191128757.html]. 2. **Roster Elevation**: - In response to these concerns, the Browns have elevated Bailey Zappe and Sal Cannella from the practice squad. Zappe is expected to serve as the backup to starting quarterback Shedeur Sanders [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/browns-elevate-bailey-zappe-sal-191015176.html][https://nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/browns-elevate-bailey-zappe-with-dillon-gabriel-questionable]. 3. **Strategic Implications**: - This move is crucial as the Browns aim to maintain competitiveness in their final games of the season. The elevation of Zappe indicates a strategic shift in their approach to the game against the Steelers [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/steelers-two-roster-moves-ahead-014025180.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Player Elevation**: - Bailey Zappe and Sal Cannella have been elevated from the practice squad, indicating a proactive approach by the Browns to address their roster needs [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/browns-elevate-bailey-zappe-sal-191015176.html]. - **Injury Reports**: - Dillon Gabriel and Harold Fannin Jr. are both listed as questionable, which has prompted the Browns to make these roster changes [https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2025/12/with-harold-fannin-jr-and-dillon-gabriel-questionable-browns-elevate-qb-bailey-zappe-and-te-sal-canella-from-the-practice-squad.html]. ### Conclusion: Strategic Moves for a Competitive Edge In summary, the Cleveland Browns are making critical roster adjustments as they prepare for their Week 17 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. 1. **Injury Management**: The elevation of Bailey Zappe and Sal Cannella is a direct response to the injury concerns surrounding Dillon Gabriel and Harold Fannin Jr. 2. **Game Strategy**: These changes reflect the Browns' strategy to ensure they have a competitive edge in a crucial matchup against a division rival. 3. **Future Implications**: As the season winds down, these roster moves could significantly impact the Browns' performance and playoff aspirations. The Browns are clearly focused on maximizing their chances for success in the final weeks of the season [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/browns-qb-move-week-17-022955266.html][https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/browns-elevate-bailey-zappe-sal-191015176.html].