Browns Quarterback Race Heats Up as Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders Vie for Starting Role

The Cleveland Browns currently have four primary candidates competing for the starting quarterback job: Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. According to offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, any of the four can win the job, as the evaluation process is still in its early stages. Rees emphasized that the group is pushing each other to improve, and the team will be ready to go by the start of the season in September.

Quarterback Competition Narrows As Browns Balance Experience, Potential And Depth Chart Challenges

Although all four quarterbacks are in contention now, it’s unlikely all will remain in the running once training camp begins. The team will need to reduce the competition to three, with one likely being traded. There is speculation that Kenny Pickett might be the odd man out. The reasoning is that giving too many reps to the quarterback at the bottom of the depth chart could hinder the readiness of the eventual starter.

Joe Flacco brings valuable NFL experience and a strong connection with Browns fans, while Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders offer potential as long-term answers at the position. The Browns appear cautious about prematurely giving up on either Gabriel or Sanders, as they could develop into franchise quarterbacks. This mix of experience and youth presents the team with multiple paths to success.

Minicamp Crucial For Quarterback Evaluation Amid Uncertainty Surrounding Deshaun Watson’s Status

The Browns will hold a mandatory minicamp next week, which serves as the final opportunity to assess the quarterbacks before training camp. Rees described the plan as fluid, emphasizing the importance of giving all four quarterbacks ample reps and opportunities to showcase their skills. Creativity in practice plans will be key to ensuring each quarterback has a chance to develop and compete fairly.

A significant complication for the Browns is the uncertain status of Deshaun Watson, who remains on the roster despite the team having moved on from him. If Watson is medically cleared to play, the Browns will face a difficult decision, particularly because insurance payouts depend on his being unable to play.

As August approaches, Cleveland will not only need to finalize their starting quarterback but also prepare for a challenging Week 1 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.