Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Cleveland Browns Set To Make Big Quarterback Trade

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Mar 3, 2026 4:30 PM ET

The Cleveland Browns have plenty of issues to address this offseason. In addition to fan-favorites tight end David Njoku and lineman Wyatt Teller announcing that they wouldn’t return to the team after 2025, they still need to pick who will start at quarterback.

Veteran Deshaun Watson (and his hefty contract) is back. Rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel will have one season under their belt. However, they have no confirmation of their status on the roster. With Todd Monken taking over as head coach, they will have an open competition again.

However, it seems as though one of their three current quarterbacks would depart soon. After starting in seven games in 2025, Shedeur Sanders might have one less opponent to worry aabout once training camp starts.

Browns Willing To Move On From Dillon Gabriel

Oct 5, 2025; Tottenham, United Kingdom; Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) walks off the field after their loss against the Minnesota Vikings in an NFL International Series game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

According to Browns insider Zac Jackson of The Athletic, the Cleveland Browns see Dillon Gabriel as a backup in the best-case scenario. More than that, they wouldn’t hesitate to trade him away,

“It’s fair to assume the Browns don’t view Gabriel as more than a long-term backup, so he could be moved if any team is interested,” Jackson wrote. “It’s also fair to assume Monken’s belief that neither Sanders nor Watson should be declared the starter now means Cleveland will add at least one quarterback to whatever competition lies directly ahead.”

Gabriel played 10 games in 2025, going 110 of 185 for 937 yards and seven touchdowns with two interceptions.

Todd Monken praised Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson before the combine, sparking speculation about potentially landing Simpson in April. The Browns had five quarterbacks on the payroll last year, and perhaps they would use that approach again this offseason.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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