The Cleveland Browns currently have an unusually crowded quarterback room, yet rookie Shedeur Sanders insists the dynamic among the players remains positive and collaborative. Speaking during the NFLPA Rookie Premiere on Up & Adams, Sanders emphasized that while outside voices may speculate on internal rivalries, the quarterbacks themselves are united in their approach and attitude. He noted that the atmosphere is supportive, not competitive in a divisive way, despite the inherent pressures of their positions.
This quarterback surplus stems from a turbulent offseason for the Browns, particularly after Deshaun Watson sustained a season-ending Achilles injury. In response, Cleveland made several moves to bolster their depth at the position. They traded for former Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett, signed veteran Joe Flacco, and used mid-round draft picks on two rookies—Dillon Gabriel in the third round and Sanders in the fifth—bringing the total to five quarterbacks competing for limited roles.
Veterans Face Uncertainty as Rookie QBs Intensify Browns’ Quarterback Competition
With Watson sidelined, attention turns to who will start and who may be let go. The competition is expected to be intense, especially since the Browns are unlikely to carry all five quarterbacks into the regular season. The presence of two rookie draft picks complicates the picture for Flacco and Pickett, as one of the veterans could be cut or traded depending on how offseason workouts and preseason performances unfold.
Currently, Pickett is presumed to be at the top of the depth chart heading into team activities, but Flacco’s experience, particularly his familiarity with head coach Kevin Stefanski’s system, adds another layer of intrigue. The team must balance long-term development with short-term competitiveness, making this one of the more fascinating quarterback situations in the league.
