The Cleveland Browns have already made a decision their starter, as longtime veteran Joe Flacco got the nod. Flacco played in the final preseason game, putting together 9-for-10 attempts, 71 yards, and a touchdown.
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With Flacco set as the starter, the rest of the quarterback depth chart will get interesting. Rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are presumably angling for the backup position, though Kenny Pickett remains on the roster as well.
Pickett has suffered a nagging hamstring injury that has kept him out, leading to Gabriel moving forward in the backup position for the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams.
With assumptions that Pickett could be cut or moved before the start of the regular season, this game is the final time where Gabriel and Sanders can state their cases to be the backup for the Browns.
That said, here is a look at how the Browns’ rookies did in the final preseason game.
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What Were Dillon Gabriel Stats in Browns’ Preseason Finale?
Gabriel showcased even more poise in the pocket, throwing on the run when in danger, and also knowing to throw the ball away when in trouble.
Gabriel did not have big-time shots downfield, but he moved the chains well. He ended his time on the field with 12-for-19 attempts, 129 yards, and one touchdown.
What Were Shedeur Sanders’ Stats in Browns’ Preseason Finale?
Sanders had tough sledding in his final preseason showing. After taking over in the third quarter, the rookie passer was under duress due to taking multiple sacks.
Sanders completed the day with 3-for-6 attempts, 14 yards, and he took five sacks.
The issue that Sanders showcased in the preseason finale was holding onto the ball for too long. His comfort level in the pocket was a far cry from the first preseason game.
Sanders attempted to keep plays alive, but paid dearly by taking costly sacks five times. He showcased more why he is a rookie and is fourth on the depth chart.
What’s Next for Browns Rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders?
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski will have to determine the order the quarterbacks will take on the depth chart before Week 1 rolls around. Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry indicated the team is likely to take all four quarterbacks on the roster.
If that is the case, the 2-3 quarterback slots may have been decided.
It wouldn’t be shocking if Gabriel was named backup, Pickett named third string, and Sanders named fourth.
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