Dillon Gabriel absolutely exploded in the Cleveland Browns’ preseason finale against the New England Patriots on Thursday night. The dude started off strong and didn’t hold anything back. We’re talking pure fireworks right from the jump, and it’s got to make you wonder what’s going on in that Browns quarterback room.
Gabriel Went OFF in the First Quarter
Seriously, the first quarter was all Gabriel. He went 7-of-8 for a stunning 135 yards and tossed two touchdowns. Not a single turnover. That’s efficiency right there, plain and simple. Thanks to that kind of play, the Browns were rolling with a 17-7 lead heading into the second quarter, racking up 175 total yards in just 15 minutes of action. That’s a serious statement from a guy who’s technically third on the depth chart.
What’s Up With the Starter Situation?
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Gabriel sits behind Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. Watson was just named the starting quarterback on Monday, capping off a positional battle with Sanders during training camp. Get this: Watson and Sanders *combined* for only one passing touchdown throughout the entire 2026 preseason. Meanwhile, Gabriel, a third-round pick from the 2025 NFL draft, already has two in one quarter of a preseason game. Last year as a rookie, he appeared in 10 games, completing 59.5 percent of his throws for 937 yards and seven touchdowns versus just two interceptions. This guy can play.
What does Gabriel’s performance mean going into the regular season? He just showed everyone he’s ready when his number gets called. You gotta watch how this plays out in Cleveland, because they have a serious talent bubbling under the surface.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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