Analysts heavily criticize the Browns’ past draft pick of Dillon Gabriel as Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders dominate the QB1 battle.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel remains unfazed despite being overshadowed in the team’s high-profile quarterback competition heading into the 2026 season. After making six starts in 10 appearances as a rookie, the former third-round pick finds himself on the outside looking in while Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders compete for the starting job. In an interview with ProFootballTalk, Gabriel emphasized that he views the situation as purely professional business rather than disrespect. He noted that his daily focus is on early walkthroughs, mastering every practice rep, and growing alongside offensive coaches Danny Bryer, James Cook, and Matt Baker.
However, the reality of Cleveland’s crowded quarterback situation has reignited criticism regarding the front office’s decision to draft Gabriel in the first place. With Watson generating QB1 buzz and Sanders entrenched in a heated duel for the job, national analysts have revisited the wisdom of selecting the Oregon product in the third round. Yahoo Sports and Football 301 analyst Nate Tice characterized the selection as “absurd,” stating it was “never justifiable.” Tice’s sharp critique reflects a broader sentiment among league evaluators, who view the choice as a wasted premium asset considering Cleveland’s heavy investments in the quarterback position.
Despite the scrutiny surrounding the roster construction, national media voices continue to praise the intensity of Cleveland’s training camp competition. Analyzing the depth chart on ESPN’s NFL Live, Field Yates asserted that Cleveland features the “truest” quarterback battle in the league. He explained that rather than relying solely on contract status or veteran seniority, head coach Todd Monken’s offense demands that the passer who performs best in practice, whether it’s Sanders, Watson, or Gabriel, deserves to start in Week 1.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel remains unfazed despite being overshadowed in the team’s high-profile quarterback competition heading into the 2026 season. After making six starts in 10 appearances as a rookie, the former third-round pick finds himself on the outside looking in while Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders compete for the starting job.
