An NFL analyst offered strong opinions on the Cleveland Browns’ rookie quarterback battle, predicting a completely different path for Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel than others. With training camp about a month away, teams begin to consider where open roster spots should be allocated.
Normally, the established veterans and high draft picks will make the team without a problem. But the real work begins for those players that need a strong showing just to make the final cut. Gabriel and Sanders both need to impress in camp and preseason games.
NFL Insider Thinks Dillon Gabriel Will Play Before Shedeur Sanders
Gabriel and Sanders will continue their battle in training camp next month during a time when reps matter most. The coaching staff will evaluate the rookies to see who the better fit is and after years of quarterback-related errors, the front office cannot keep making the same mistakes.
For the last 46 years, Tony Grossi covered football in northeast Ohio on a multitude of platforms. He knows the inner workings of the Browns. Additionally, he knows how to capture the audience’s attention, as he did with a peculiar take regarding the Cleveland rookie quarterbacks. He stopped by ESPN Cleveland to discuss the issue.
.@HammerNation19 has a question for @TonyGrossi 🤣
Why does he bring up Dillon Gabriel when he is asked about Shedeur Sanders success 🤣 pic.twitter.com/dk00DPzI7i
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 18, 2025
“I think Gabriel is overlooked because of the massive shadow that Shedeur casts. I get the feeling that everyone thinks Shedeur is the only player out there working hard–the only one who’s the last to leave. There’s another quarterback that the Browns rated higher than him, so be prepared if that guy plays ahead of Shedeur, because they like him a lot.”
Grossi’s take wasn’t hot for being wild or improbable. The media has covered every movement that Sanders makes. For Grossi, he can’t help but mention Gabriel every time Sanders’ name comes up.
It’s not like Gabriel is overlooked from a press standpoint. From articles about his best throws to people stating that the former Oregon passer could overtake Sanders in pieces that were published a week ago. If Gabriel receives first-team reps ahead of Sanders, that speaks more to his improvement than any of Sanders’ words or actions.
However, using the surname as a buzzword will garner eyes. Gabriel could actually make the roster, and Sanders may not. That decision rests with the coaching staff.