In one of the most attention-grabbing moves of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns added not one but two quarterbacks to their roster—Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. With fans still trying to make sense of the surprising dual selection, the Browns’ front office has left no doubt that they are planning for more than just depth—they’re planning for the future. But why did Cleveland take this unexpected route? And what does it mean for their quarterback room, Deshaun Watson’s future, and the direction of the franchise as a whole?
Let’s break down a fascinating draft strategy that could reshape the Browns’ identity over the next few seasons.
A Draft Class With Purpose
Before diving into the quarterback conundrum, it’s important to view the Browns’ 2024 draft class in full context. Over the weekend, Cleveland made seven key additions:
- DT Mason Graham
- LB Carson Schwesinger
- RB Quinshon Judkins
- TE Harold Fannin Jr.
- QB Dillon Gabriel
- RB Dylan Sampson
- QB Shedeur Sanders
Each pick served a specific purpose. Graham bolsters a young but promising defensive line. Schwesinger adds athleticism to the linebacker corps. Judkins and Sampson give Cleveland dynamic options in the backfield. Fannin Jr. provides pass-catching versatility at tight end. But it’s the last two names—Gabriel and Sanders—that have captured headlines across the league.
Why Draft Two Quarterbacks?
It’s rare for a team to draft two quarterbacks in the same draft—especially within the same year. It’s even rarer for those quarterbacks to come with such distinct resumes.
Dillon Gabriel, the Oklahoma standout, is known for his accuracy, quick release, and mature pocket presence. A seasoned college QB with over 14,000 career passing yards, he’s proven he can handle pressure and lead an offense effectively. He’s NFL-ready in many ways, and while scouts noted limitations in his arm strength and mobility, many teams viewed him as a reliable Day 2 pick.
Shedeur Sanders, on the other hand, is a high-upside project with a star pedigree. The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur emerged as a force at Jackson State and then continued his rise under Coach Prime at Colorado. He brings confidence, athleticism, and a leadership quality that NFL teams covet. While his mechanics and pocket discipline still need refinement, the potential is undeniable.
So why take both?
According to a Browns front office source, the decision was all about creating optionality and hedging for the future.
The Deshaun Watson Factor
At the heart of this decision lies one undeniable truth: the Deshaun Watson experiment has been volatile.
Since joining Cleveland on a historic fully guaranteed contract, Watson’s tenure has been plagued by off-field controversies, injuries, and inconsistent on-field performance. The Browns front office remains publicly committed to their franchise quarterback—but privately, they’re preparing for scenarios in which Watson does not return to form or becomes financially unsustainable.
By drafting both Gabriel and Sanders, Cleveland gives itself a chance to evaluate two very different quarterback profiles while maintaining control over their rookie contracts. It’s a long-term insurance policy without triggering immediate quarterback controversy.
“We Wanted a Competitive Room” – Browns GM Speaks Out
In a post-draft press conference, Browns General Manager Andrew Berry was asked directly why the team doubled up on quarterbacks.
“We wanted to bring in competition, plain and simple,” said Berry. “Both Dillon and Shedeur bring different strengths. Dillon’s ready to lead an NFL offense tomorrow. Shedeur is someone you build around. It’s a unique opportunity for us.”
Berry denied that the moves reflected any lack of confidence in Watson, instead framing the picks as part of a broader organizational philosophy of “stacking talent at critical positions.”
How Gabriel and Sanders Fit the Offense
From a schematic standpoint, both quarterbacks offer interesting options for Browns offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey.
Dillon Gabriel fits into a traditional West Coast-style offense. He thrives on timing, quick decision-making, and spreading the ball efficiently. Think of him as a reliable game manager in the mold of Derek Carr or Jared Goff.
Shedeur Sanders, on the other hand, is better suited for an RPO-heavy system with designed rollouts, misdirection, and deep vertical threats. His arm strength and improvisational skills could eventually elevate the Browns’ offensive ceiling—if he develops as hoped.
Both quarterbacks are expected to take a backseat in 2024, learning behind Watson and veteran backup Jameis Winston. But don’t be surprised if preseason battles start to raise eyebrows across the league.
Roster Implications and Development Plans
With Watson, Winston, Gabriel, and Sanders now in the quarterback room, decisions will have to be made. It’s unlikely the team carries four quarterbacks into the regular season. One of the rookies—most likely Sanders—could spend a season on the practice squad or be protected as a third QB on game days under new NFL roster rules.
That said, both players are expected to receive extensive development attention. Insiders suggest that Dorsey and QB coach Drew Petzing have already crafted separate development tracks for the two, focusing on refining Gabriel’s deep ball and improving Sanders’ pocket discipline.
What Fans Are Saying
Unsurprisingly, Browns fans are divided.
On one side, there’s excitement about the infusion of young quarterback talent. On the other, there’s skepticism about using two draft picks on QBs while other roster needs—particularly in the secondary and at wide receiver—could have used the attention.
But there’s one thing everyone agrees on: Cleveland just got a lot more interesting.
A Risk? Yes. But a Calculated One
In a league where quarterback play determines everything—from playoff success to job security—teams cannot afford to be passive. The Browns are making a calculated gamble that one of these rookies, if not both, could become key assets in the years to come.
And with Watson’s performance still a mystery, Cleveland fans now have at least two new reasons to watch every preseason snap with laser focus.
Looking Ahead
Will Dillon Gabriel become the steady hand that brings stability to a volatile position? Could Shedeur Sanders evolve into a star in his own right, carving a legacy beyond the shadow of his famous father? Or will Watson return to elite form and render the whole discussion moot?
Only time will tell. But one thing is clear: in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Browns didn’t just pick players. They picked possibilities.
And that, in today’s NFL, might be the most valuable asset of all.
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