Browns Make Dillon Gabriel Announcement Ahead of Training Camp

Dillon Gabriel has officially arrived at Cleveland Browns training camp, ready to take part in a four-man competition for the starting quarterback job.

The Browns’ rookies reported to camp on Friday, a few days ahead of the veterans. One of the first players to be showcased on the team’s social media was Gabriel.

“Dillon Gabriel is in the building!” the post from the Browns read.

In the video, Gabriel enters the building, exchanging a quick handshake with the front desk staff before heading deeper into the facility.

https://x.com/Browns/status/1946214314857164871

“That handshake at the reception desk and walking in wearing ‘DAWG POUND’ gear tells you everything about Gabriel’s mindset,” one fan said. “Shows up ready to work, not trying to make a statement. In a four-way QB battle, that kind of preparation and respect for the building matters more than draft position.”

The post drew significantly more attention than others, largely because of the high-profile quarterback battle unfolding. Gabriel is competing for the starting job alongside veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, as well as fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders. Fans were quick to point out that Sanders’ arrival hadn’t been shared yet.

“Interesting,” a fan noted. “This better not mean he above shedeur no matter. Hopefully, everyone gets an equal shot to compete.”

Another added: “Boooo show Shedeur.”

Dillon Gabriel Pick Criticized by Browns Fans

The Browns’ selection of Gabriel in the third round was unexpected. Many had the record-setting college passer going in later rounds, mostly due to his 5-foot-11 frame. However, the Browns feel confident that Gabriel will be able to make an impact.

“We spent a lot of time with Dillon throughout this process, brought him in right after the combine, did obviously the private visit and workouts out in Eugene (Oregon),” Browns GM Andrew Berry said. “Decorated college career, very accurate, very poised, throws with anticipation, good mobility. We just thought he had a really well-rounded game.”

Gabriel has yet to win over the fan base in Cleveland.

“This was a terrible pick. He will get passes knocked down at the line constantly, and he will take sacks because he’s not that fast,” one fan said. “The geek squad who runs the front office who thinks they are always smarter than everyone just had to have him. We always end up looking stupid.”

Browns Rookies Under Pressure to Produce

The Browns have one of the most compelling quarterback situations in the NFL, with Gabriel, Sanders, Flacco, and Pickett all vying for the starting job. While the veteran presence of Flacco and Pickett offers some potential stability for this season, the real spotlight is on the rookies.

Gabriel and Sanders are under mounting pressure to prove they can lead the franchise, particularly with the Browns holding two first-round picks in next year’s draft. If neither rookie flashes long-term potential, Cleveland could use that draft capital to pursue a true franchise quarterback in 2026.

The urgency is amplified by the team’s turbulent history under center. The Browns have started an NFL-high 40 quarterbacks since 1999.