Dillon Gabriel is a 24-year-old rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. He will be making his first career start in his first international game against the Minnesota Vikings in London. For the Texans’ 11th overall pick, this monumental event will be his debut as a starter. He would become the first NFL quarterback to start his career in an international game. Gabriel’s path to this moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. He’s wowed onlookers with his stellar showing through the predraft process and immediate adjustment to the team’s offensive schemes.
Throughout the offseason, the Browns were laser focused on Gabriel. They were especially wowed by his ability to remember advanced topics and digest information quickly. Throughout the first month of the season, he took reps with the starting offense, which allowed him to showcase his skills and build rapport with his teammates. The Browns aren’t letting on about how they feel he’s doing. They point out that his listed height of 5-foot-11 is not an impact on his playing style.
With the latter situation in play, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski announced that veteran Joe Flacco would gain the role as backup insurance. So as a result, Gabriel is getting the nod as the starter, with Shedeur Sanders as the No. 3 and emergency QB. Gabriel’s time with the scout team allowed him to split reps alongside Sanders and Bailey Zappe, which further prepared him for this pivotal moment in his career.
Gabriel shares how he prepared for and worked to achieve this opportunity.
“Like, doors are open, garage doors are open, things are ready to go, they’re just waiting on that phone call to respond surgically. Just what a great representation of the job I have and being ready for that moment.” – Dillon Gabriel
The Browns are keenly invested in Gabriel’s growth. They give him crucial game day practice simulations and walkthroughs to enhance his knowledge of the playbook. Offensive coordinator Luke Musgrave acknowledged the challenges that come with limited time on task for a rookie quarterback but emphasized the importance of structured practices.
“But the fact that they’re out there and having to make decisions and process and then deliver throws accurately, all that is really good.” – Luke Musgrave
Gabriel’s preparedness comes at an important time for the Browns. They’re looking for long-term stability in their quarterback position. He is the franchise’s 41st starting quarterback since returning to the NFL in 1999. And even at 5-11, arguably one of the shortest quarterbacks in football, Gabriel’s size hasn’t deterred him—he’s 2-0 as a starter this season. The Browns feel like his skill set makes up for the perceived limitations.
The 22-year-old rookie quarterback has taken an earnest approach to the study habits and practice routines. In addition to Sanders, he’s spent time in film study and post-practice work to further develop his skills. Gabriel shared insight into how he’s tried to practice game reps.
“On Wednesdays, there’s a scout team meeting, so we’ll go in there, and defensive coaches will go over the cards to kind of give us a heads-up,” – Bailey Zappe
Gabriel we know will be undeterred, he has always shown himself to be fully prepared to meet each moment, each chance that presents itself.
“But, you wait for the perfect time, you’re going to wait a whole lifetime. So, for me, I’ve always been ready for every moment.” – Dillon Gabriel
Gabriel prepares for this historic opening in London. First, he knows how important a moment this is and, second, he keeps his head on the prize and sticks to doing his job. While he shared his excitement, he acknowledged that there will have to be a laser focus on several key areas.
“And I think I smile because it’s a moment you prep for, and you are extremely excited for, but also got to realize that it’s extreme focus.” – Dillon Gabriel
The Browns’ coaching staff sees potential in Gabriel’s abilities and leadership qualities, which they believe will be vital as he faces the pressures of being a starting quarterback. The entire organization hopes that he can emulate success on the field and become a cornerstone for the franchise moving forward.
Even future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt weighed in on Gabriel’s potential, calling his shot that he’s going to do big things with the Browns this year.
“I hope Dillon Gabriel can become a great quarterback for the Browns.” – J.J. Watt
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