Home / Sports / Browns Rookie QB Dillon Gabriel Shines, but Sparks Controversy with Remarks
Browns Rookie QB Dillon Gabriel Shines, but Sparks Controversy with Remarks
16 Aug
Summary
- Dillon Gabriel, Browns rookie QB, impresses in preseason debut
- Gabriel throws for 143 yards, leads TD drive, but also throws pick-six
- Gabriel's post-game comments seen as a shot at fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders
On August 16, 2025, the Cleveland Browns defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 22-13 in a preseason matchup, with rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel making a strong impression in his debut. Gabriel, who was selected in the fifth round of this year's NFL Draft, went 13-of-18 for 143 yards and led the Browns on a touchdown-scoring drive to open the game.
However, Gabriel's performance was not without its blemishes, as he also threw a costly interception that was returned for a touchdown by Eagles safety Andrew Mukuba. Despite the turnover, Gabriel's overall play was largely positive, showcasing his potential as the Browns' future signal-caller.
It was Gabriel's post-game comments, though, that have generated the most buzz. "There's entertainers, and there's competitors," the rookie QB said, a remark that many interpreted as a shot at fellow Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders, who is considered more of a celebrity than a traditional NFL prospect.
The Browns' quarterback situation remains unsettled, with the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams looming. The coaching staff will have to decide how to divide the reps between Gabriel, Sanders, and the team's incumbent starter in the coming week, as they look to solidify their depth chart ahead of the regular season.
