Dillon Gabriel shines with three touchdowns, complicating QB depth chart ahead of roster cuts
Category: Sports
The Cleveland Browns concluded their preseason with a convincing 37-13 victory over the New England Patriots on August 27, 2026, leaving head coach Todd Monken with challenging decisions to make as the team prepares for the regular season. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel stood out, throwing three touchdown passes and completing 12 of 15 attempts for 186 yards, leading the Browns to points on their first five drives.
Gabriel’s performance showcased his potential and complicated the Browns' quarterback depth chart as they face roster cuts by 6 p.m. EDT on Sunday, August 30. Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders did not play in the game, allowing Gabriel and rookie Taylen Green to take center stage. Green also impressed, directing a 98-yard touchdown drive and displaying his dual-threat capability with five completions for 27 yards and eight rushes for 66 yards.
Gabriel, a third-round pick in 2025, expressed his satisfaction with the performance, stating, "At some point you want to see your hard work coming to fruition. Of course, it wasn’t exactly what I wanted in the first two preseason games and that’s probably frustrating on my end. But then being able to go out today and make the most of it, that's what it is about." His ability to connect with receivers, including touchdowns to Luke Floriea and Ahmani Marshall, demonstrated his readiness for a larger role.
Meanwhile, the Patriots struggled significantly, failing to play any starters and being outmatched across the field. Their lackluster performance raised concerns about depth, as head coach Mike Vrabel noted, "We couldn't match the speed of the quarterback in the zone read and some of those things. We’ve got a lot of work to do, like everyone else." This defeat highlighted the Patriots' need for improvement as they prepare for the regular season.
As the Browns move toward final roster decisions, the quarterback situation remains a focal point. Monken praised both Gabriel and Green, stating, "I thought they both did some really good things. Dylan really within himself, and then Taylen was going to have some splash plays and some plays where you get him on the perimeter and use athleticism as you keep working to refine his passing. It was fun to watch him play, but just like every position, we’re going to have to cut it down." This indicates that both players have made strong cases for their spots on the roster.
The Browns have a history of quarterback instability, having cycled through numerous starters in recent seasons. Last year, Gabriel started six games, throwing seven touchdowns against two interceptions. The team is looking to solidify its quarterback position, especially after naming Watson as the starter for the upcoming season, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike.
Watson’s tenure has been marked by controversy and dissatisfaction among the fanbase. His performance during the preseason has not alleviated concerns, as evidenced by the boos he received during a previous game against the Buffalo Bills. Watson had expressed frustration with the fans' reactions, stating, "The last time I played on this field, I tore my Achilles and that same fan base, they cheered when I got hurt... It’s a little bit more personal than that so I think that’s a disrespectful thing." This sentiment has only deepened the divide between him and the fans.
As the Browns prepare for the regular season, they must navigate these dynamics carefully. The team is under pressure to perform, especially with Super Bowl odds currently at 225/1, according to FanDuel. The expectation is high, and the organization is looking to turn the tide after years of struggles.
With roster cuts imminent, the Browns will need to make tough decisions about which players to retain. Gabriel's standout performance could secure him a spot as the primary backup, but the team must also weigh the potential of Green, who has shown flashes of brilliance. Both players have the potential to play a role in the team's future, but only one may secure a place on the 53-man roster.
The final roster will be announced in waves, with some cuts possibly leaking early. Players with less than four years of service must clear waivers before being eligible for practice squad signings. Veterans, on the other hand, can sign immediately after being released. The Browns' coaching staff will be closely monitoring player performances in the coming days as they finalize their decisions.
As the Browns head into the regular season, they will face the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13, 2026. This matchup will be a litmus test for Watson and the rest of the team as they look to start strong and regain the trust of their fanbase. The pressure is on for the Browns to deliver results and move past the controversies that have overshadowed their recent seasons.
In the meantime, the organization will continue to address fan concerns, particularly surrounding Watson, as they strive to build a cohesive unit capable of competing in the NFL.