The Cleveland Browns recently held their rookie minicamp, giving them their first opportunity to see their seven draft picks in action on the practice field as professionals.
The Browns selected two quarterbacks and two running backs among their seven-man draft class, with much of the spotlight naturally falling on the quarterback position.
In a surprising turn, the Browns were able to land quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round after selecting Dillon Gabriel in the third. One respected Cleveland media member is already saying that Sanders looks clearly better than Gabriel.
“In just throwing the ball, it’s not close — it is Shedeur Sanders,” said Zac Jackson of The Athletic, comparing Sanders and Gabriel. “This is rookie minicamp. No pads, no full-speed competition, [and] nobody coming to knock your head off. They both pick up a ball and throw it, it’s no question.”
A Browns reporter who was present at minicamp was asked who was better between the 2 quarterbacks:
— GUCCE⬛ (@gucceCU) May 12, 2025
“It’s not close….Shedeur Sanders.”
@ultCLEsports pic.twitter.com/d0C3uIJten
The Browns were high on Gabriel, who played at Oregon, selecting him in the third round. As a quarterback with extensive college experience and strong accuracy, Gabriel fits the profile of what head coach Kevin Stefanski values. Coming away with two rookie quarterbacks gives Cleveland hope that at least one will develop into a long-term solution.
Cleveland plans to give both rookies a chance to compete with veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett for the starting job. With two first-round picks again next season, the Browns are well-positioned to continue addressing the quarterback position if needed.
While Sanders brings a lot of media buzz, that isn’t the reason he slipped to the fifth round. Still, it’s a promising sign that the rookie out of Colorado made a strong first impression at minicamp.
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