The Cleveland Browns are shaking things up, but not everyone in the locker room is happy about it. Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Wednesday that rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel will start this Sunday in London against the Minnesota Vikings, replacing veteran Joe Flacco. The move leaves fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders stuck at QB3, and his frustration was clear.
When asked how he could earn more trust from the coaching staff, Sanders playfully mimed his response, refusing to speak. Later, when pressed again, he simply smiled and stayed quiet—adding more fuel to speculation about his future in Cleveland.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano previously reported that either Dillon Gabriel or Sanders could be on the move before the Nov. 4 trade deadline. Gabriel’s sudden promotion only adds to that chatter.
Sanders expressed his confidence only last week. When you watch the quarterback play in the league nowadays I know I can do better than that. “I’m ready to play right now.”
Stefanski praised Dillon Gabriel’s work ethic and preparation. “From the second he’s been here, he’s worked really hard,” the coach said. “He’s a very intelligent young man, and we feel like he’s ready to go as the starter.”
Dillon Gabriel, who was named Flacco’s backup before the season, says he’s been preparing for this opportunity. “You wait for the perfect time, you’re gonna wait a whole lifetime,” Gabriel said.
The Browns’ offense desperately needs a spark. Cleveland has scored only 56 points through four games and hasn’t topped 17 in a single matchup. Flacco has thrown for 815 yards with two touchdowns but leads the league with eight turnovers, including six interceptions.
With the Browns sitting at 1-3, the quarterback shuffle may be just the start of bigger changes—and Sanders’ future could be the next storyline to watch.
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