Posted on Oct 01

Browns announce QB change: "Players were informed of the quarterback change Wednesday morning."

Posted Oct 1, 2025

The Cleveland Browns are making a significant shift at quarterback, benching veteran Joe Flacco in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel for their upcoming clash against the Minnesota Vikings in London.

Why it matters: This decision underscores the Browns' struggle to find offensive consistency as they prepare to face a formidable opponent.

With an NFL-low average of 14 points per game, the Browns' offense has struggled to keep pace, ranking second-to-last in scoring.
Flacco's performance has been particularly concerning, with a league-high eight turnovers and a Total QBR of just 27.0, placing him among the least effective quarterbacks this season.

What’s new: Dillon Gabriel will now take the reins, having garnered attention after being drafted in the fourth round (94th overall) earlier this year.

Gabriel had previously replaced Flacco in the final series against the Detroit Lions, where the team suffered a disappointing 34-10 defeat.
He also saw action against the Baltimore Ravens, suggesting that the coaching staff values his readiness despite his lack of regular-season experience.

Yes, but: The change brings both potential and uncertainty as Gabriel steps into a challenging role.

While he showed promise during training camp and has been integrated into the starting offense, transitioning from college football to the NFL can be steep, especially under pressure against a defense like that of the Vikings.
Flacco’s wealth of experience contrasts sharply with Gabriel’s rookie status, raising questions about whether the Browns can effectively compete in London.

What to watch: How Gabriel performs as the starter will be crucial, not only for his confidence but also for the Browns’ future plans.

His ability to manage the game and minimize turnovers will be essential, given the team's current offensive woes.
The Browns coaching staff, led by Kevin Stefanski, is likely to tailor the game plan to suit Gabriel’s strengths while navigating the challenges of playing overseas.

The bottom line: As the Browns move forward with Gabriel, the organization appears committed to finding a spark to revitalize their stagnant offense.

Players were informed of the quarterback change on Wednesday morning, indicating a decisive shift in strategy.
Whether Gabriel can elevate the Browns' performance remains to be seen, but his debut as a starter presents an opportunity for both him and the franchise to redefine their trajectory this season.

Browns announce QB change: "Players were informed of the quarterback change Wednesday morning."

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 1, 2025

The Cleveland Browns are making a significant shift at quarterback, benching veteran Joe Flacco in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel for their upcoming clash against the Minnesota Vikings in London.

Why it matters: This decision underscores the Browns' struggle to find offensive consistency as they prepare to face a formidable opponent.

With an NFL-low average of 14 points per game, the Browns' offense has struggled to keep pace, ranking second-to-last in scoring.

Flacco's performance has been particularly concerning, with a league-high eight turnovers and a Total QBR of just 27.0, placing him among the least effective quarterbacks this season.

What’s new: Dillon Gabriel will now take the reins, having garnered attention after being drafted in the fourth round (94th overall) earlier this year.

Gabriel had previously replaced Flacco in the final series against the Detroit Lions, where the team suffered a disappointing 34-10 defeat.

He also saw action against the Baltimore Ravens, suggesting that the coaching staff values his readiness despite his lack of regular-season experience.

Yes, but: The change brings both potential and uncertainty as Gabriel steps into a challenging role.

While he showed promise during training camp and has been integrated into the starting offense, transitioning from college football to the NFL can be steep, especially under pressure against a defense like that of the Vikings.

Flacco’s wealth of experience contrasts sharply with Gabriel’s rookie status, raising questions about whether the Browns can effectively compete in London.

What to watch: How Gabriel performs as the starter will be crucial, not only for his confidence but also for the Browns’ future plans.

His ability to manage the game and minimize turnovers will be essential, given the team's current offensive woes.

The Browns coaching staff, led by Kevin Stefanski, is likely to tailor the game plan to suit Gabriel’s strengths while navigating the challenges of playing overseas.

The bottom line: As the Browns move forward with Gabriel, the organization appears committed to finding a spark to revitalize their stagnant offense.

Players were informed of the quarterback change on Wednesday morning, indicating a decisive shift in strategy.

Whether Gabriel can elevate the Browns' performance remains to be seen, but his debut as a starter presents an opportunity for both him and the franchise to redefine their trajectory this season.