Shedeur Sanders’ position with the Cleveland Browns could be in jeopardy, as an ESPN analyst suggests he might end up as the third-string quarterback. This comes despite Sanders stepping up as a starter in Week 12 of the 2025 NFL season, following injuries and a trade. The return of Deshaun Watson, coupled with the drafting of Dillon Gabriel, could limit Sanders’ opportunities.
Grossi’s View: Gabriel a Better Backup Option
Tony Grossi, an ESPN reporter, believes Dillon Gabriel is a better fit for the backup role. Grossi stated that Gabriel will keep quiet, study, stay up on the game plan, and support the starter. Grossi added that Gabriel will run the scout team, and play if needed, which is what is wanted from a backup quarterback.
Grossi also noted that Sanders’ shadow is so huge. Grossi feels this is one of the reasons teams shied away from him in the draft. Grossi stated that if you didn’t like him as the starter, you did not consider him as a backup.
Gabriel’s College Success and NFL Performance
The Cleveland Browns selected Dillon Gabriel as the 94th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, following his collegiate career. In 2024, representing the Oregon Ducks Football team, Gabriel recorded 3,857 passing yards, a 72.9% pass completion rate and 30 touchdowns in 14 games played.
Gabriel was given the starting spot in the absence of Watson, who suffered an Achilles tendon injury. Gabriel played 10 games, racking up 937 passing yards with seven touchdowns. He suffered a concussion in Week 11, which led to Sanders taking over the role.
- The team only won a single game with Gabriel as the QB.
- Sanders had a 3-4 record.
Watson’s Potential Return and Sanders’ Hopes
Coming into his second season, Sanders would have hoped to start for the Browns. However, reports from the voluntary minicamp suggest that Watson could be the player new head coach Todd Monken chooses as his QB.
Grossi confirmed that to be his pick as well. Grossi believes if Watson’s healthy, he’ll be a better version of himself than we’ve seen yet.
The Cleveland Browns acquired Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans in March 2022. The trade involved three first-round draft picks, and Watson signed a 5-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract. Since the trade, Watson has only played 19 games for the Browns.
Despite Sanders’ performance when given the opportunity, he might find himself further down the depth chart if Watson remains healthy and Gabriel is favoured for the backup role.