Cleveland Browns’ Quarterback Conundrum: The Arrival of Shedeur Sanders
The 2025 NFL Draft has reshaped the future of the Cleveland Browns as they selected quarterback Shedeur Sanders with the 144th overall pick in the fifth round. This decision raises fundamental questions about the franchise’s quarterback situation, especially regarding the roles of other quarterbacks on the roster, including Deshaun Watson, Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and Dillon Gabriel. With various factors influencing the team’s direction, the Browns find themselves at a crucial juncture.
Current Quarterback Landscape
Sanders’ selection has intensified discussions surrounding the Browns’ quarterback depth chart. The franchise currently boasts four signal-callers:
- Deshaun Watson
- Kenny Pickett
- Joe Flacco
- Dillon Gabriel
Deshaun Watson’s Uncertain Future
Watson, a former Pro Bowler, is signed through the 2026 season; however, his 2025 season is in jeopardy due to a significant Achilles injury incurred earlier this year. Analysts speculate that the Browns may not pursue a contract extension, especially as they hold two first-round picks in the upcoming draft, positioning them for an early quarterback selection if needed. This uncertainty casts a shadow over Watson’s tenure with the team, raising queries about whether 2025 will mark his last year in Cleveland.
Kenny Pickett: The Front-Runner
Kenny Pickett, at 26, seems to be in the best position to be the Browns’ starter come the 2025 regular season. With 25 career starts and a record of 15-10, Pickett already has experience with the Browns’ playbook. His productivity in the last few games creates optimism, although the addition of Gabriel and Sanders complicates his path to securing a stable role.
However, his tradeability has emerged as a viable option given the potential for criticism should they trade away someone like Gabriel or Sanders. Pickett’s position is precarious, with his performance likely to determine his fate in a competitive roster.
Joe Flacco: Experience on the Roster
At 40, Flacco’s marketability for a trade is low, but his veteran experience makes him a crucial asset. After stepping in during crucial games last season, he could once again lead the offense, offering the Browns a steady hand as they navigate a possibly tumultuous period. A successful season could bolster his career, while a struggle would prompt the team to consider a serious re-evaluation for their 2026 plans.
Dillon Gabriel’s Position
Dillon Gabriel, a third-round draft pick, is expected to compete seriously for the backup role. The competition among Sanders, Gabriel, and Pickett is predicted to be intense. Gabriel must prove his capability during the preseason to hold a secure spot, with the potential for a trade looming if he performs exceptionally.
Shedeur Sanders: The Potential Superstar
Sanders is a unique case; selected in the fifth round, he possesses a high upside. Not only was he a media sensation leading up to the draft, but he also displayed skills that suggest he could be a viable starter sooner than typically expected from a fifth-round pick. Many believe that he could ascend the depth chart quickly, despite having to improve on critical aspects such as footwork and play recognition under pressure.
The worst-case scenario for him is ending up on the practice squad, but optimism remains that he could transition to the starting role at some point during the season, depending on the dynamics within the team.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for the Browns
As the Browns embark on a new season with multiple quarterbacks vying for significant roles, they are at a strategic crossroads. The balance between embracing new talent like Sanders while managing veteran presences like Watson and Flacco presents both challenges and opportunities.
The situation could significantly impact their trajectory in upcoming seasons, especially given that the Browns possess multiple high draft picks to further shape their roster. The decision-making process surrounding these quarterbacks could define not just the coming season, but the future direction of the franchise—underscoring the importance of careful and strategic planning as they navigate this complex dilemma.
