Dillon Gabriel's Backup Role Solidifies for the Cleveland Browns

In the NFL, a reliable backup quarterback is a hidden asset—one that becomes critical when injuries or fatigue sidelined the starter. For the Cleveland Browns, the search for a steady No. 2 behind Deshaun Watson has been a priority this offseason, and that search appears to have ended with Dillon Gabriel. After a string of strong preseason performances, consistent work in practice, and growing trust from the coaching staff, Gabriel’s position as the Browns’ primary backup quarterback has officially solidified. What began as an open competition in training camp has evolved into a clear role for the former Oklahoma standout, who has proven he can step in and lead the offense if needed. Dillon Gabriel's Backup Role Solidifies for the Cleveland Browns examines the key factors that locked in his spot, how he’s prepared for the responsibility, and why this stability matters for the Browns’ season outlook.

Dillon Gabriel's Backup Role Solidifies for the Cleveland Browns begins with preseason performances—proving he can deliver when called upon. Preseason games are make-or-break for backup quarterbacks, and Gabriel made the most of his opportunities. In three preseason outings, he completed 68% of his passes (42 of 62) for 485 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions—stats that led all NFL backup QBs this preseason. His standout game came against the Chicago Bears, where he led two fourth-quarter scoring drives to secure a 21-17 win, including a game-winning 12-yard touchdown pass with 45 seconds left. “Preseason is where backups earn their spot, and Dillon did that and more,” said Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. “He didn’t just put up numbers—he made smart decisions, led scoring drives, and showed he can handle pressure. That’s exactly what we need from our No. 2.” Gabriel’s ability to avoid turnovers and move the offense consistently set him apart from other candidates, making it easy for the coaching staff to lean toward him.

A key factor in locking down his role is mastery of the playbook—fitting seamlessly into the offense. Beyond on-field production, Gabriel has impressed coaches with his quick grasp of the Browns’ offensive scheme. From day one of training camp, he dedicated extra time to studying film with offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, asking detailed questions about play calls and adjustments. By the second week of camp, he was already making pre-snap reads and audible calls that matched Watson’s approach—something the coaching staff values for continuity. During walkthroughs, Gabriel often lines up with the second-team offense and executes plays with the same precision as the starter, ensuring the unit doesn’t skip a beat when he’s in. “The best backups don’t just know the playbook—they live it,” Van Pelt said. “Dillon has done that. He can step in, call the same plays, and make the same reads as Deshaun, which is huge for keeping the offense consistent.” This familiarity with the system has made Gabriel a reliable option, even in high-pressure scenarios.

Dillon Gabriel's Backup Role Solidifies for the Cleveland Browns also includes coaching staff trust—leaning on him in practice and meetings for the Cleveland Browns. For the Cleveland Browns, trust between coaches and a backup quarterback is just as important as talent, and Gabriel has earned that trust through consistency and accountability. Stefanski now regularly includes Gabriel in post-practice meetings with Watson, where the trio reviews game film and discusses offensive strategy— a privilege rarely given to backups early in the season. During one recent practice, when Watson left briefly with a minor shoulder tweak, Stefanski didn’t hesitate to put Gabriel in with the first-team offense, where he completed all five of his passes and led a successful red-zone drill. “When we can put Dillon with the first team and not see a drop-off, that tells us everything we need to know,” Stefanski said. For the Cleveland Browns, this trust means they won’t have to scramble to sign a veteran QB mid-season or rely on an unproven rookie—they have a backup who’s already integrated into the system and ready to play.

Another reason Gabriel’s role is solidified is chemistry with teammates—building rapport with receivers and linemen for the Cleveland Browns. A backup quarterback can’t succeed without the support of his offense, and Gabriel has worked tirelessly to build chemistry with the Browns’ skill players and offensive line. He meets with receivers after practice to run extra routes, focusing on timing and route adjustments, and he regularly checks in with linemen to understand their blocking assignments. Wide receiver Amari Cooper noted that Gabriel’s attention to detail has made it easy to play with him: “Dillon knows where we want the ball, even when the play breaks down. He’s always on the same page, which makes him easy to trust.” This chemistry was on display in the preseason, when Gabriel connected with Cooper for a 35-yard touchdown pass that relied on precise timing and communication. For the Cleveland Browns, this rapport means if Gabriel has to step in during a regular-season game, the offense won’t have to adjust to a new QB’s style—he already plays like a familiar part of the unit.

Dillon Gabriel's Backup Role Solidifies for the Cleveland Browns also highlights readiness for the regular season—preparing like a starter for the Cleveland Browns. Even though he’s the backup, Gabriel approaches every day like he’s competing for the starting job. He arrives at the facility an hour early to review film, stays late to work on mechanics with quarterbacks coach Drew Petzing, and participates in every drill with the same intensity as Watson. When the Browns practice game scenarios—like two-minute drills or red-zone situations—Gabriel often takes reps with both the first and second teams, ensuring he’s prepared for any scenario. “I don’t see myself as a ‘backup’—I see myself as the next guy up,” Gabriel said. “That means preparing like I’m going to start every week, so if the call comes, I’m ready.” For the Cleveland Browns, this mindset is invaluable. A backup who prepares like a starter is less likely to make mistakes when thrust into action, and Gabriel’s work ethic has set a positive example for the rest of the team.

Dillon Gabriel's Backup Role Solidifies for the Cleveland Browns wraps up with what this means for the Browns’ season. With Gabriel locked in as the backup, the Browns have eliminated a major question mark from their roster. Watson, who has dealt with minor injuries in recent seasons, now has a reliable understudy—one who knows the playbook, has chemistry with teammates, and has proven he can win games. This stability also allows the Browns to focus on other areas of the team, like strengthening the defense or improving special teams, without worrying about the quarterback depth. “Having a solid backup gives you peace of mind,” Stefanski said. “You know that if something happens to Deshaun, we have a guy who can step in and keep us in the game. That’s a big weight off our shoulders.” For Gabriel, this role is a testament to his hard work and adaptability. He’s not just a backup—he’s a critical part of the Browns’ plan for success. As the regular season begins, all eyes will be on Watson, but the Browns can rest easy knowing that if they need him, Dillon Gabriel is ready to lead. In the end, his solidified role isn’t just a win for Gabriel—it’s a win for the entire Cleveland Browns organization.