The Cleveland Browns will start their second rookie quarterback in as many weeks during their preseason matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. After fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders impressed during his first taste of NFL action, the former Colorado star suffered an oblique injury during practice. This will sideline him for today’s game, leaving third-round pick Dillon Gabriel to handle starting duties.
Gabriel entered the offseason above Sanders on the Browns depth chart, but the quarterback missed the preseason opener with an injury of his own. Now, the Oregon product will have his chance to compete for the wide-open starting job.
Browns Will Start Quarterback Dillon Gabriel In Preseason Week 2
Gabriel and Sanders are competing with veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett in a wide-open battle for the Browns’ starting quarterback position. With Deshaun Watson’s injury, contract, and overall level of play already sinking their season, Cleveland has basically thrown a bunch of darts at the wall and are looking to see what sticks.
Sanders had an encouraging first performance, completing 14 of his 23 attempts for 138 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. This was just the preseason, so nobody should get too excited, but it’s the first time Cleveland had any hope at the position since Baker Mayfield defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers in the playoffs.
Chances are, Gabriel and Sanders will both begin the season on the sidelines. While both players could earn an opportunity later in the season, it’s safe to assume the Browns organization would prefer to enter the season with an established veteran quarterback under center, rather than an untested rookie.
Gabriel and the Browns face off against the Philadelphia Eagles at 1:00 PM, eastern time.
Main Photo: Bill Streicher – Imagn Images
