Cleveland Browns Expected to Retain Four Quarterbacks on 53-Man Roster

What's Happening?

The Cleveland Browns are anticipated to keep four quarterbacks on their 53-man roster for the 2025 NFL season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Veteran Joe Flacco has been named the starter for Week 1, following a competitive four-way quarterback battle. Despite head coach Kevin Stefanski's comments that maintaining four quarterbacks is 'not realistic,' Schefter predicts that rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, along with 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett, will remain on the roster as Flacco's backups. The decision comes as the team deals with the absence of quarterback Deshaun Watson, who is recovering from a torn Achilles. Flacco is set to start the season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals and may also play in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams.

Why It's Important?

The decision to keep four quarterbacks highlights the Browns' strategic approach to securing depth in a critical position, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson's recovery. This move could impact the team's roster flexibility and salary cap management, as quarterbacks are considered valuable assets in the NFL. The inclusion of rookies Sanders and Gabriel suggests a focus on developing young talent for future seasons. Additionally, the potential for trades involving Pickett or the rookies could influence the team's dynamics and strategy leading up to the regular season. This decision may also set a precedent for other teams considering similar roster strategies.

What's Next?

As the Browns finalize their roster, potential trades involving Kenny Pickett or the rookie quarterbacks could emerge, depending on interest from other teams. The team's performance in the preseason finale against the Rams may further influence roster decisions. Stakeholders, including fans and analysts, will be watching closely to see how the Browns manage their quarterback situation and whether this strategy pays off in the regular season. The team's approach could prompt discussions among other NFL teams about the value of maintaining multiple quarterbacks on the roster.