Shedeur Sanders Possesses Greater Talent Than Dillon Gabriel, Says Former NFL Receiver
Cleveland’s quarterback competition is heating up, with a former NFL player asserting that rookie Shedeur Sanders has a clear edge over fellow newcomer Dillon Gabriel.
The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback room is arguably the most intriguing storyline of the NFL offseason. With veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett also in the mix, the battle for the starting role between rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel has captivated fans and analysts alike. However, according to a six-year NFL veteran and Cleveland native, Cecil Shorts, the talent disparity between the two rookies is significant. Shorts believes Sanders is “way better” than Gabriel.
Browns Should Prioritize Rookie Quarterback Development
Shorts, speaking on the Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show, advocated for the Browns to focus their evaluation on the two rookie quarterbacks, rather than immediately turning to the more experienced Flacco or Pickett. “Let them battle it out, choose one and ride with them and see what they can do,” he stated. He further emphasized his aversion to frequent quarterback changes, arguing, “I’m not big on switching quarterbacks… I hate that. Let the rookie battle all 17 games; if he’s healthy, battle all 17 games. Let him develop. Let him get better.”
A Stark Assessment of Talent
Shorts didn’t mince words when comparing the two rookies. “To me, talent-wise like you mentioned, Shedeur is way better than Dillon,” he explained. He went on to suggest that Gabriel was largely overlooked during the draft process, stating, “Dillon wasn’t on anybody’s list. Let’s call a spade a spade. Nobody was thinking about Dillon Gabriel being drafted in the first three rounds. Nobody. Wasn’t on anybody’s list. Nobody was talking about him on TV at all. Come on, let’s be real here.” The Browns selected Gabriel in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, two rounds ahead of Sanders.
Sanders Impressing in Early Workouts
Since joining the Browns, Sanders has reportedly made a positive impression with his work ethic and team-first attitude. Despite not receiving any first-team reps during offseason workouts, Sanders showcased impressive statistics during five open practices, completing 41-of-53 passes (77.4 percent) for nine touchdowns and only one interception, according to ESPN Cleveland.
The Browns’ first preseason game, scheduled for August 8 against the Carolina Panthers, will provide the first opportunity for fans to see Sanders and Gabriel in live NFL action. Sanders, accustomed to pressure from his two seasons at Colorado, finished his collegiate career with 1,267 completions in 1,808 attempts (70.1 percent) for 14,353 yards and 134 touchdowns across 50 games.
Gabriel’s Collegiate Success
While Sanders is generating buzz, Dillon Gabriel also boasts a decorated college career. After playing for UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon, Gabriel concluded his collegiate career as the FBS all-time leader in career touchdowns (189) and starts (63). In his final season at Oregon, he was a Heisman Trophy finalist, throwing for 3,857 yards, 30 touchdowns, and six interceptions while leading the Ducks to a 12-0 regular season and a Big Ten Championship.
Rookies are scheduled to report to Browns training camp on July 18, with veterans following on July 22. The first practice open to fans will be held on July 25. The quarterback competition promises to be a central focus as the Browns prepare for the 2025 season.
