Cleveland Browns QB Dillon Gabriel: Scouts See Potential Amidst Training Camp Competition

Cleveland, OH – August 7, 2024 – veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is firmly positioned as the frontrunner to be the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback for the 2024 NFL season, according to recent reports from training camp in Berea, Ohio. This progress comes amidst a hamstring injury to Kenny Pickett and struggles from rookie quarterbacks Michael Gabriel and Dorian Thompson-Robinson.

Pickett sustained the hamstring injury on August 3rd during a practice session, sidelining him and further solidifying flacco’s position. As of today, the starting job appears to be Flacco’s to lose, particularly with Pickett’s uncertain recovery timeline. NFL.com reports Pickett remains determined to compete for the role upon his return.

ESPN’s Jake Trotter reported on Sunday that Flacco is a “strong favourite” to win the starting position. this assessment reflects a shift in the quarterback competition throughout the Browns’ training camp.

Analysts have noted that neither Thompson-Robinson nor gabriel were considered realistic contenders for the starting job entering August. Over the past week, Flacco has moved from being the presumed favorite to a clear frontrunner, demonstrating consistency and experience that the younger quarterbacks have yet to match.

There are also concerns regarding Gabriel’s readiness to serve as the primary backup quarterback. Trotter suggests Gabriel may not be prepared for that role at this stage of his development.

Recent practices have highlighted Gabriel’s struggles with accuracy. While camp performance isn’t a definitive indicator of future success, observers have expressed doubts about his current ability to reliably step in as the no. 2 quarterback. His completion percentage during the last five practices has been reported at under 50%.

Gabriel is in his first year in the NFL, and expectations are tempered.He will have opportunities to improve and compete during training camp and throughout the season. The Browns coaching staff, led by head coach Kevin Stefanski, will focus on his development.