What's Happening?
The Cleveland Browns are set to start rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel in their upcoming preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This decision comes after Shedeur Sanders, another rookie quarterback, suffered an oblique injury during a joint practice earlier in the week. Sanders, who was initially projected as a top-five draft pick but slid to the fifth round, had a strong debut in the Browns' preseason opener, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns. Despite his injury, Sanders was seen in uniform before the game. The Browns are dealing with multiple quarterback injuries, including fourth-year quarterback Kenny Pickett, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Veteran Joe Flacco is healthy but will not play in the upcoming game.
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Why It's Important?
The Browns' quarterback situation is a significant storyline in the NFL preseason, as the team navigates injuries and evaluates its roster ahead of the regular season. The performance of Dillon Gabriel in the upcoming game could impact the team's decision-making regarding their quarterback lineup. With Sanders and Pickett both injured, Gabriel's opportunity to start is crucial for his development and the team's assessment of his capabilities. The Browns may consider keeping four quarterbacks on their roster, which is uncommon, highlighting the importance of these preseason games in shaping the team's strategy.
What's Next?
The Browns will continue to monitor Sanders' recovery and evaluate Gabriel's performance in the preseason game against the Eagles. The team will need to make decisions regarding their quarterback lineup before the regular season begins, considering the health and performance of their players. The Browns' coaching staff will likely review game footage and practice sessions to determine the best course of action for their quarterback roster.
