The Cleveland Browns have named rookie Dillon Gabriel as their starting quarterback, but his grip on the position is far from secure.

In their recent 31-6 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, Gabriel completed 13 of 18 passes for a modest 116 yards. This performance came on the heels of a loss to the Minnesota Vikings, where he went 29-for-52 for 221 yards.

Gabriel has started three games, but his play has been underwhelming, prompting speculation about when the Browns might turn to fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders, who is waiting for his opportunity.

According to ESPN’s Tony Rizzo, sources indicate the Browns have already decided on Sanders’ role moving forward.

“I was told by two different sources: one said Shedeur will start the last four games of the season, no matter what. Unless the Browns win every game through the Titans (in Week 14), Shedeur will play the Bears, Bills, Steelers and Bengals. Another person said he could be in play earlier than that,” Rizzo said.

The Browns drafted Gabriel in the third round of the NFL Draft in April and selected Sanders a few rounds later.

Initially, the team started the season with Joe Flacco at quarterback, but after benching him following Week 4 and trading him to the Cincinnati Bengals, the starting role opened up. While Gabriel was the initial choice, the Browns may now be considering giving Sanders a chance to prove himself, likely to evaluate both quarterbacks’ potential.

With two first-round picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, Cleveland is in a position to explore its options at quarterback.

Before committing to another signal-caller, the team appears eager to determine if Gabriel or Sanders could be their long-term solution. Both quarterbacks excelled in college, but many believe Sanders’ size and stronger arm give him an edge in transitioning to the NFL.

Currently standing at 2-5, the Browns are preparing to take on the New England Patriots next Sunday.