Two QBs Predicted to Start for Browns; Did Shedeur Sanders Make the Cut?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 21, 2025 12:48 PM ET

It looks like Shedeur Sanders may have to wait his turn in Cleveland.

According to ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Rizzo, the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback competition is heating up, and Sanders reportedly isn’t one of the top names in the mix. Rizzo shared his take during a recent segment, highlighting two players he believes are leading the four-player race.

“I’m telling you that I believe that Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel are the two guys that I’d be looking at to start,” Rizzo said.

That’s tough news for Sanders, who joined the Browns as a fifth-round selection in this year's draft. While few expected him to start right away, this reported update adds a bit of clarity to the depth chart.

The Browns reportedly put more on Dillon Gabriel's in OTAs and minicamp than they originally planned.

"I'm telling you that I believe that Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel are the two guys that I'd be looking at right now to start," - @TheRealTRizzo. pic.twitter.com/0CVfwosBKA
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) July 21, 2025

Gabriel, selected in the third round, has reportedly impressed the staff by handling more in OTAs and minicamp than initially expected. And Pickett, a former first-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers, brings more NFL game experience to the table.

Perhaps the most surprising part? Rizzo didn’t even mention veteran Joe Flacco, who is not only the most experienced QB in the room by far but also the highest-paid signal-caller behind the rehabbing Deshaun Watson.

Flacco's absence from the conversation could indicate the Browns are looking toward the future rather than relying on another year of Flacco as a fallback option.

However, until there is official word from the front office or coaching staff, Rizzo is dealing in speculation and rumor.

As for Sanders, his time may come, but it looks like the Browns are prioritizing a battle between Pickett and Gabriel for now. With preseason still ahead, there’s room for things to change, though it appears Sanders is on the outside looking in.

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

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