Everyone is focused on theDeshaun Watson andShedeur Sanders showdown, and for good reason. TheCleveland Browns’ starting quarterback battle will dominate headlines throughout training camp. However, the most interesting subplot in the Browns QB room might belong to the player nobody is talking about.
While Watson and Sanders battle for QB1 duties,Dillon Gabriel is making a strong case to become the Browns’ most valuable insurance policy heading into the 2026 season.
Dillon Gabriel Emerging As Browns’ Ideal Emergency Quarterback Option
Dillon Gabriel ready to start a play at the Browns OTA camp in Berea on May 20, 2026.
The Browns appear set on carrying three QBs into the regular season, and according to team insiders, Gabriel is separating himself as the perfect fit for the QB3 role.
During a recent episode of Orange and Brown Talk, Cleveland.com reporter Dan Labbe explained why Gabriel’s skill set makes him an ideal emergency option behind Watson and Sanders.
“I think Dillon is kind of a guy who, he’s almost perfect for a role like that [as QB3]. He’s going to be ready. If you need him to come in in a pinch, he’s going to do it.”
Dan Labbe of https://t.co/Q57vtHbz1X believes Dillon Gabriel is the perfect fit for a QB3 role with the Browns, citing his readiness and ability to step in and contribute whenever needed.
“I think Dillon is kind of a guy who, he’s almost perfect for a role like that [as QB3].… pic.twitter.com/kxJqv62cP6
— BrownsNation.com (@BrownsNationcom) June 22, 2026
This recommendation counts because Gabriel’s path to earning a roster spot isn’t based on upside or athleticism, but reliability.
According to Mary Kay Cabot, Gabriel had a great spring despite being limited to working with third and fourth-string offenses. His football intelligence and knowledge of the playbook were evident at organized team activities and the mandatory minicamp.
The third-round draft pick started six games for the Browns in 2025 amid tough conditions. He played with an injured O-line, without many skill position players, making his first NFL appearance in London.
His numbers were modest – he went 1-5 with 937 passing yards, 7 TDs, and 2 INTs as a starter, yet one should take into account these factors.
The thing that the Browns want to see from their third quarterback is not playmaking skills. However, they need a steady hand who can keep the offense functional if injuries strike.
And Gabriel checks each of those boxes. The biggest threat to his roster spot is sixth-round rookie Taylen Green. The 6-foot-6 quarterback offers interesting athletic upside and could carve out a situational role in short-yardage packages.
Yet, Green remains a developmental project. And if the Browns think that Green is worthy of making the active roster, Gabriel can end up being trade material heading into Aug. 30 cut-down date.
But despite the fact that Watson and Sanders might be the center of attention in the quarterback room, Gabriel’s role in stabilizing the position can turn out to be equally vital when the season starts.