The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their Week 5 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in London, but a change at quarterback has Browns fans wondering about the team’s depth chart and the potential role of rookie Shedeur Sanders. After a disappointing 0-4 start to the 2025 season, head coach Kevin Stefanski has decided to shake things up, leading to questions about who will be under center and how the quarterback hierarchy will play out.
This article dives into the Browns’ current quarterback situation, focusing on whether Shedeur Sanders will see any action in the game against the Vikings. We’ll break down the Browns’ QB depth chart, examine the reasons behind the recent changes, and explore the outlook for each quarterback as the season progresses. Understanding the Browns’ quarterback strategy is crucial for fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The Browns’ current QB depth chart.
- The decision to start Dillon Gabriel over Joe Flacco and Shedeur Sanders.
- An overview of each quarterback’s role and expectations.
Browns QB Depth Chart
As the Browns prepare to face the Vikings in London, their quarterback depth chart has undergone a significant shift. Here’s a look at the updated QB hierarchy:
- Dillon Gabriel
- Joe Flacco
- Shedeur Sanders
- Deshaun Watson (PUP – Achilles)
Dillon Gabriel has been named the starter for the Week 5 game against the Vikings, marking his first career start in the NFL. Veteran Joe Flacco has been relegated to the backup role, while rookie Shedeur Sanders remains the emergency third quarterback.
This depth chart reflects a strategic decision by Coach Stefanski to inject some new energy into the Browns’ offense after a slow start to the season. With Deshaun Watson still on the PUP list, the Browns are relying on their younger quarterbacks to step up and lead the team.
Is Shedeur Sanders Playing Today?
For fans eager to see Shedeur Sanders in action, the current expectation is that he will not be playing in today’s game against the Vikings. Sanders is slated to be the Browns’ emergency third quarterback for the fifth consecutive week. Unless both Dillon Gabriel and Joe Flacco sustain injuries, Sanders will remain on the sidelines.
Sanders, a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was initially projected by many analysts to be a first-round selection. Despite his potential, the Browns have opted to take a cautious approach with the rookie, allowing him to develop behind the more experienced Gabriel and Flacco.
While Sanders may not be playing today, his presence on the roster provides valuable depth and a glimpse into the future of the Browns’ quarterback position. Fans can anticipate seeing him in action if circumstances necessitate, but for now, he’ll continue to learn and prepare as the team’s third-string option.
Dillon Gabriel Takes the Reins
The decision to start Dillon Gabriel signals a shift in the Browns’ quarterback strategy. Gabriel, a third-round pick from Oregon, has been given the nod to lead the offense against the Vikings. This move comes as the Browns seek to revitalize their passing game and jumpstart their season.
Gabriel has appeared in two of Cleveland’s first four games, primarily in late-game situations when the outcome was already decided. Despite limited playing time, the coaching staff has been impressed with his poise and potential, leading to his promotion to the starting role.
As Gabriel prepares for his first career start, he’ll be tasked with managing the offense, making smart decisions, and leading the Browns to victory. The Browns’ coaching staff is hopeful that Gabriel can bring a spark to the team and provide a glimpse into the future of the quarterback position.
Joe Flacco Shifts to Backup Role
Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, who began the season as the Browns’ starter, has been moved to the backup role behind Dillon Gabriel. Flacco, an 18-year veteran, returned to Cleveland in the offseason and started the first four games of the season.
Despite his experience and leadership, the Browns’ coaching staff felt that a change was needed to shake up the offense and provide a different look for opposing defenses. Flacco’s move to the backup role allows him to serve as a mentor to Gabriel while still being ready to step in if needed.
Flacco’s presence on the roster provides valuable experience and stability to the Browns’ quarterback room. As a former Super Bowl MVP, Flacco can offer guidance and support to Gabriel as he navigates his first career start and helps the team compete for a playoff spot.
Looking Ahead: The Browns’ QB Outlook
As the Browns navigate their quarterback situation, several factors will shape the outlook for the position moving forward. Dillon Gabriel’s performance as the starter will be closely evaluated, as the team assesses his ability to lead the offense and make sound decisions.
Shedeur Sanders remains a key part of the Browns’ long-term plans, and his development will continue behind the scenes. While he may not be playing significant snaps in the immediate future, his potential as a future starter is undeniable.
The eventual return of Deshaun Watson from the PUP list will also impact the Browns’ quarterback situation. Watson’s recovery from his Achilles injury will be a key storyline to watch as the season progresses, and his return could alter the team’s quarterback hierarchy once again.
In Conclusion
As the Cleveland Browns prepare to face the Minnesota Vikings in London, the team’s quarterback situation is in a state of flux. Dillon Gabriel has been named the starter, Joe Flacco has shifted to a backup role, and Shedeur Sanders remains the emergency third quarterback.
While Shedeur Sanders will not be playing in today’s game, his presence on the roster underscores the Browns’ commitment to developing young talent at the quarterback position. As the season unfolds, the Browns’ quarterback situation will continue to evolve, and fans can expect to see continued competition and strategic adjustments.
Ultimately, the Browns’ success will depend on their ability to find stability and consistency at the quarterback position. Whether it’s Gabriel, Flacco, Sanders, or Watson under center, the Browns will need strong leadership and decision-making to achieve their goals and compete for a playoff berth.
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