Cleveland’s offseason overhaul is beginning to create uncertainty around quarterback Dillon Gabriel as the Browns reshape their offense under new head coach Todd Monken. While several major moves have already taken place across the NFL ahead of the upcoming league year, Cleveland has largely stayed out of the spotlight.
Still, discussion surrounding the team’s quarterback plans suggests Gabriel could become expendable if the front office adds another passer.
Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com discussed the situation during an appearance on 92.3 The Fan in Cleveland on Saturday, March 7. She indicated the Browns may consider moving Gabriel if a different quarterback joins the roster.
“If they do add a veteran, I think it would be a younger guy that would have some upside potential and could do something for them down the road,” Cabot said. “If they bring in another guy, then I think they would be open to trading Dillon Gabriel. I think that’s something to watch for over the next week."
The shift in leadership could also influence that decision. Cabot suggested the offensive scheme installed by Monken might not align with Gabriel’s skill set.
“Maybe Todd Monken has seen enough of [Gabriel] in what his scheme would be for a guy like that … [and] they would consider moving him,” Cabot continued. “In that scenario, then you maybe go out and find another developmental guy."
The comments hint that Cleveland may still pursue another rookie quarterback later in April’s draft, creating additional competition and potentially pushing Gabriel toward the trade market.
Atlanta Falcons emerge as possible landing spot while Cleveland weighs roster upgrades
If Cleveland ultimately shops Gabriel, the Atlanta Falcons could present a logical trade partner. Former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski now leads Atlanta and previously oversaw Cleveland’s decision to select Gabriel in the third round of last year’s draft. That familiarity could make the Falcons comfortable acquiring him for a modest return.
One possibility mentioned around the league involves a Day 3 selection, potentially a fifth- or sixth-round pick. Although Gabriel’s rookie season did not deliver standout numbers, he performed within expectations for a developmental backup.
Across 10 appearances, he produced 937 passing yards with seven touchdowns and two interceptions, completing 59.5 percent of his throws while going 1-5 in six starts.
Atlanta’s quarterback situation also remains unsettled after the organization confirmed plans to release Kirk Cousins once free agency begins on March 11. Veteran Joe Flacco has been mentioned as a potential option for the Falcons’ depth chart, but Gabriel could represent a younger alternative if Atlanta decides to pursue a trade instead.
Meanwhile, Cleveland’s roster construction remains a broader concern. The Browns finished with the league’s lowest-ranked offense across the past two seasons, forcing Monken and general manager Andrew Berry to address multiple areas simultaneously.
The team already began reshaping the offensive line by sending a fifth-round selection to the Houston Texans for right tackle Tytus Howard, who quickly agreed to a three-year extension.
Wide receiver is another area under consideration. Cleveland is unlikely to secure premier free agents Alec Pierce or Mike Evans, which is why Seattle Seahawks wide receiver and return specialist Rashid Shaeed could be an appealing target.
During nine games with Seattle following a trade from the New Orleans Saints, Shaeed recorded 15 catches for 188 yards and has averaged just under 15 yards per reception during his career.
Shaeed’s value also extends to special teams. A two-time Pro Bowl selection as a returner and a 2023 All-Pro in that role, he has scored three punt return touchdowns and one kick return touchdown. His career averages include 13 yards per punt return and 24.9 yards per kick return.
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