Browns' Young Quarterback Faces Early Setback
The Cleveland Browns announced Tuesday that quarterback Dillon Gabriel has been placed on injured reserve after a back injury sustained in the final preseason game against the New England Patriots. Gabriel, a third‑round draft pick in 2025, had been competing for the starting role but was viewed as a potential cut or trade candidate heading into the regular season.
During that preseason matchup, Gabriel completed 12 of 15 passes for 186 yards and three touchdowns, a performance that had sparked optimism among coaches and analysts. ESPN analyst Adam Schefter highlighted the development, noting the quarterback’s strong showing despite the injury.
The injury will keep Gabriel out for the first four games of the 2026 season, meaning he will miss contests against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Carolina Panthers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. In his absence, Deshaun Watson will start, with Shedeur Sanders serving as the backup.
When Gabriel becomes eligible to return, the Browns will have to decide whether to activate him to the active roster or place him on the practice squad. The decision will hinge on his recovery progress and the team’s evaluation of the quarterback depth chart.
The move underscores the challenges faced by rookie quarterbacks in the NFL and reflects the Browns’ strategy of balancing immediate competitiveness with long‑term player development.