Photo Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
The Cleveland Browns are preparing to shake up their quarterback room. According to a report from CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, the team is expected to bench veteran Joe Flacco and turn to rookie Dillon Gabriel for Sunday’s Week 5 matchup in London against the Minnesota Vikings.
If confirmed, Gabriel will become the first quarterback in NFL history to make his first career start outside of the United States.
The Browns have not officially announced the move, and their latest depth chart still lists Flacco as the starter. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has avoided directly addressing the situation, saying after Sunday’s 34-10 loss to the Detroit Lions that the entire offense — not just the quarterback — must improve.
What Gabriel Brings to the Offense
Cleveland surprised some draft analysts by selecting Gabriel in the third round of this year’s draft, but the rookie impressed with his poise and accuracy during preseason action.
In two starts against the Eagles and Rams, Gabriel went 25-for-37 for 272 yards, one touchdown, two turnovers, and a lost fumble. He cleaned up his mistakes against Los Angeles, showing improved decision-making. In the regular season, he has only attempted four passes but connected on three, including a touchdown strike to Dylan Sampson against the Ravens.
The Browns’ staff has praised Gabriel for his anticipation, quick processing, and mobility — traits that may serve him well against an aggressive Vikings defense.
“Decorated college career, very accurate, very poised, throws with anticipation, good mobility,” GM Andrew Berry said after drafting him. “We just thought he had a really well-rounded game.”
A Tough First Assignment
Gabriel won’t have it easy in his debut. Minnesota defensive coordinator Brian Flores has turned the Vikings into one of the league’s most disruptive units. They blitz at the third-highest rate in the NFL (37.4%) and rank among the top 10 in sacks. Their pass defense is also one of the stingiest, allowing just 151.5 yards per game and only three passing touchdowns through four weeks.
To ease the pressure on Gabriel, Cleveland will lean on its run game. Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins has emerged as a weapon, and the Vikings’ run defense has been vulnerable. Expect Stefanski to balance the offense with timing-based pass plays such as slants, curls, and outside breakers that suit Gabriel’s strengths.
Targets like Jamari Thrash, Harold Fannin Jr., and Jerry Jeudy could be featured in the short-to-intermediate passing game, while Gabriel’s willingness to attack the middle of the field gives the Browns options to spread the ball.
What It Means for Shedeur Sanders
A move to start Gabriel could also impact Shedeur Sanders’ status. The rookie has been the Browns’ emergency quarterback, inactive on game days unless both Flacco and Gabriel are sidelined. If the Browns officially demote Flacco, Sanders may move up to the No. 2 spot.
Sanders has expressed confidence in his ability to play if called upon. “I know if you see the quarterback play in the league right now, I know I’m capable of doing better than that,” he said last week.
Long-Term Implications
The Browns’ quarterback search has been ongoing for years, and Gabriel’s debut marks the latest chapter. While Flacco’s veteran experience helped Cleveland reach the playoffs last season, his three turnovers against Detroit highlighted the need for a change.
The Browns appear ready to give Gabriel a long leash. If he can handle Flores’ blitz-heavy defense in London, Cleveland may have found a new spark at quarterback — and perhaps a piece of its future.
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