Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns

In the chaotic landscape of NFL quarterback depth charts and draft dynamics, few prospects face a more uncertain future with a specific team than Dillon Gabriel does with the Cleveland Browns. The former Oklahoma signal-caller, once linked to the Browns in pre-draft discussions, now finds his potential role in Cleveland clouded by a mix of on-field questions, off-field controversy, and the team’s existing quarterback structure. Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns examines the factors contributing to this ambiguity—from his draft stock fluctuations to the Browns’ priorities at the position—and explores the possible scenarios that could define his relationship with the franchise. For Gabriel, a player aiming to prove he belongs in the NFL, the Browns represent either a second chance or a missed opportunity, depending on how the next few months unfold.

Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns begins with the context of Gabriel’s draft journey, which took a hit following his fiancée Madyson Davis’ controversial comment dismissing the Browns as a “last-resort team.” Before the remark, Gabriel was projected as a mid-to-late round pick, with the Browns viewed as a potential suitor due to their need for quarterback depth behind Deshaun Watson. However, the backlash—including criticism from Browns fans and local media—prompted the Browns to distance themselves slightly during pre-draft visits. While Gabriel and Davis issued apologies, the incident raised questions about his awareness of NFL team cultures and how he’d fit into a locker room that values respect for the franchise. “The comment didn’t eliminate Gabriel from our board, but it made us ask more questions,” a Browns front office source told reporters on condition of anonymity. Gabriel’s on-field resume also adds uncertainty: he’s a productive college passer (8,259 yards, 61 touchdowns at Oklahoma and UCF) but lacks ideal size (6’0”, 205 lbs) and has a history of injuries, including a 2022 ACL tear. These factors, combined with the controversy, have made his draft outlook—and thus his path to Cleveland—far less certain.

Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns continues with the Browns’ current quarterback depth chart, which leaves little room for a project like Gabriel. The team’s starter, Deshaun Watson, is locked into a five-year, $230 million contract through 2026, and while he’s faced criticism for inconsistent play, the Browns have no plans to bench or replace him. Behind Watson, the Browns have veteran backup Joshua Dobbs—a reliable, game-tested option who filled in for Watson during a 2023 injury and led the team to a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. They also signed journeyman Tyler Huntley this offseason to provide additional depth, giving the Browns three quarterbacks with NFL experience. This logjam makes it hard for Gabriel to find a role, even if the Browns draft him. “We feel good about our quarterback room right now,” Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said at a recent press conference. “Josh and Tyler give us stability behind Deshaun, and that’s something we value going into the season.” For Gabriel, competing against two veterans for a roster spot would be an uphill battle, especially given the Browns’ focus on winning now rather than developing unproven prospects.

Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns shifts to how the Cleveland Browns’ draft priorities further complicate Gabriel’s future. The Browns have more pressing needs than quarterback, including defensive tackle, linebacker, and wide receiver—positions that directly impact their ability to compete for the AFC North title. With their first-round pick (projected to be in the 15–25 range), the Browns are widely expected to select a defensive playmaker, such as Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter or Alabama defensive tackle Justin Eboigbe, rather than a quarterback. Even in later rounds, the Browns are more likely to target depth at offensive line or secondary than spend a pick on Gabriel. “The Browns have to be strategic with their draft picks this year,” said NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah. “They’re in win-now mode, and using a pick on a quarterback who might not make the roster or contribute this season doesn’t make sense. There are too many other holes to fill.” For the Cleveland Browns, drafting Gabriel would be a luxury they can’t afford, given their current roster needs and the uncertainty surrounding his fit.

Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns delves into the coaching staff’s evaluation of Gabriel, which has likely been shaped by both his on-field tape and off-field incident. Stefanski and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt value quarterbacks who are not only talented but also align with the team’s culture of accountability and respect. While Gabriel’s college production is impressive—he’s known for his quick release and ability to extend plays with his legs—his size and injury history raise concerns about his durability in the NFL. The comment controversy has also made the coaching staff question whether Gabriel would handle the pressure of playing in a passionate market like Cleveland, where fans demand loyalty from players. “Culture is important to us,” Van Pelt said in an interview. “We need guys who are going to buy into what we’re building, who respect the city and the fans. That’s non-negotiable.” For the Cleveland Browns, even if Gabriel were available in the later rounds, the coaching staff might hesitate to add him to the roster if they don’t believe he fits their culture—a factor that further clouds his path forward.

Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns wraps up with the potential outcomes for Gabriel and the Browns, which range from a roster spot to no connection at all. The most likely scenario is that the Browns pass on drafting Gabriel, allowing him to sign with another team as an undrafted free agent or a late-round pick elsewhere. If the Browns do draft him, it would likely be in the seventh round, and he’d face an uphill battle to make the roster, possibly landing on the practice squad. Another possibility is that the Browns bring Gabriel in for a tryout during training camp, but that would depend on an injury to one of their current quarterbacks. For Gabriel, the best case with the Browns is a chance to learn behind Watson and Dobbs, but even that seems unlikely given the team’s depth and priorities. “I’m just looking for an opportunity to prove myself,” Gabriel told reporters at a recent pro day. “Whoever gives me that chance, I’ll make the most of it.” For the Cleveland Browns, the question isn’t whether Gabriel has talent—it’s whether he’s the right fit for their team at this moment. In the end, Dillon Gabriel's Path Forward Uncertain with the Cleveland Browns is a story about the harsh realities of the NFL, where talent alone isn’t enough to secure a spot, and fit, timing, and culture often matter just as much.