The Cleveland Browns enter the 2026 offseason with one of the most intriguing quarterback competitions in the NFL, and it’s already clear that second-year quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel are taking very different approaches to prepare for their sophomore campaigns. Both players saw action last season, but under contrasting circumstances, setting the stage for a fascinating offseason narrative.
Gabriel, the 94th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, started the season as the Browns’ presumed starter. He finished the year with 937 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and only two interceptions. However, a concussion in Week 11 forced Gabriel out of action, allowing Sanders to take over under center.
Sanders, a fifth-round selection out of Colorado, showed flashes of promise despite struggling with consistency. He completed 56.6% of his passes, throwing for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. While his statistics suggest room for growth, his performance demonstrated resilience and poise, keeping him firmly in the conversation for the starting role in 2026.
What has drawn attention this offseason is how differently the two quarterbacks are approaching preparation. Browns head coach Todd Monken revealed that Sanders has spent significant time at the team’s facility in recent months, immersing himself in the playbook and developing chemistry with teammates.
Gabriel, in contrast, has not been seen at the Browns’ headquarters, raising questions about his offseason routine and commitment to on-site preparation.
“As far as I know, he has not,” Monken said. “I have not seen Dillon yet.”
Monken also discussed the structure of the quarterback competition, noting that reps will not be split evenly. Instead, the coaching staff will allocate practice opportunities strategically based on performance and readiness, focusing on players who give the team the best chance to win.
Different strategies, same goal
Sanders‘ immersion in the team’s environment underscores his commitment to securing the starting role. Beyond attending practices, he has embraced symbolic changes, such as switching his jersey number to No.2 to honor his college roots and mark a new chapter in his career.
Gabriel‘s decision to train away from the team does not necessarily indicate a lack of dedication, but it may place him at a disadvantage compared to Sanders‘ hands-on approach.
As the Browns prepare for voluntary workouts and spring practices, this contrast in preparation will be one of the most closely watched storylines. With veteran Deshaun Watson also in the mix, Cleveland’s quarterback battle promises drama.
By the time Week 1 arrives, the team’s decision will likely reflect not just talent, but who has committed most effectively to mastering the Browns’ system.
