One of the most intriguing position battles in the NFL is finally settled, as Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has announced the quarterback depth positions for Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders.
After weeks of training camp and preseason, with rumors that the Browns were set to bring four quarterbacks into the 2025 NFL season, head coach Kevin Stefanski has announced the depth positions for the signal callers.
Flacco had already been named the starter for the team, but now Dillon Gabriel will remain the team's backup. Also, Sanders will dress the same day to serve as the third emergency quarterback.
This quarterback depth position reveal is huge for multiple reasons. It states that the Browns are happy with Gabriel taking the backup spot as a rookie, which is a huge step for the former Oregon product's career.
Also, this position might benefit Gabriel plenty, should Flacco be injured or benched. Despite being a longtime and proven veteran, Flacco has been in situations where his play has warranted a quarterback change.
That occurred with the Indianapolis Colts in 2024. Despite playing as the backup for Anthony Richardson, Flacco was called into action when Richardson was benched for pulling himself out of the game.
The thought was that Flacco would continue the season as the starter, but he was replaced following poor performances in two consecutive games. Should the same occur in 2025, Gabriel could be the starter sooner rather than later.
The other reason that this depth position reveals is important is Sanders might also have a chance to play. Should things shake out in a way where both Flacco and Gabriel are unavailable, Sanders will get his chance to lead the team.
It is not often the third-string emergency quarterback is called into action, but these things do happen.
The Browns also have placed faith in both rookies, as Kenny Pickett was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, and Tyler Huntley was released. With these moves, the team is now banking on developing both Gabriel and Sanders.
Gabriel might be able to start in 2025, and Sanders is sure to follow. Either way, making the roster and being given a chance to potentially start is huge news for both rookies.
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