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Rookie QB Fails to Ignite Browns' Offense as Calls for Change Grow
12 Nov
Summary
- Browns coach Stefanski sticks with struggling rookie QB Gabriel
- Gabriel's poor performance drags down Browns' offense
- Fans and analysts demand a change at quarterback
As of November 12th, 2025, the Cleveland Browns' decision to stick with rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel as their starter has become a point of contention. Since being named the team's starting QB in Week 5, Gabriel has posted a 1-4 record, and his performance has done little to inspire confidence in the Browns' offense.
The Browns' struggles extend beyond just Gabriel, however. The poor construction of the team's offensive roster has been a bigger issue than the coaching, with the Browns rushing Gabriel into the starting role after their initial stopgap plan, 40-year-old Joe Flacco, failed to produce. Despite a decent first game, Gabriel has only regressed since, with opposing defenses now well-prepared for his limitations.
Stefanski, the Browns' head coach, has remained steadfast in his commitment to Gabriel, even after giving up play-calling duties in a search for a spark. The coach's refusal to consider other options, such as backup Shedeur Sanders, has only added to the frustration among Browns fans and analysts.
The numbers paint a bleak picture for Gabriel's performance. Through 10 weeks, he ranks 41st in EPA per dropback and last among starters in first-down percentage. His struggles have contributed to the Browns' 2-7 record, and with the season slipping away, the calls for a change at quarterback are only growing louder.
As the Browns prepare to host the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday, the pressure on Stefanski and Gabriel will only intensify. The home crowd is likely to voice their displeasure if the offense sputters again, and the coach's continued resistance to making a change could further erode his standing with the fanbase.
