The Cleveland Browns have finalized their quarterback roster for the upcoming NFL season, making significant adjustments to their lineup. Following the trade of Kenny Pickett to the Las Vegas Raiders and the release of Tyler Huntley, the Browns will enter the regular season with three quarterbacks: Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders.
Deshaun Watson, the Browns’ starting quarterback, has been placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform list. He is expected to miss the first four games of the season while recovering from an Achilles injury that may keep him sidelined for the majority of the year.
Cleveland had initially planned to retain all four quarterbacks competing for the starting position. However, the decision to trade Pickett—a fifth-round pick in the 2026 draft—took place just before roster cuts. This move reflects the team’s strategy to consolidate its quarterback options heading into the new season.
New Quarterback Lineup
Flacco, a seasoned veteran, will lead the team as its primary quarterback. He brings extensive experience, having previously played for multiple NFL teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, with whom he won a Super Bowl. The Browns selected Gabriel in the third round of the recent draft, while Sanders, a fifth-round pick, has spent training camp as the fourth quarterback on the depth chart.
Now positioned to back up Flacco, Sanders will likely play a crucial role in the team’s offense if needed. Coach Kevin Stefanski has not yet announced who will serve as Flacco’s direct backup, leaving room for speculation about how the team will manage its quarterback responsibilities.
The adjustments in the quarterback room highlight the Browns’ commitment to building a competitive team. The season is set to kick off in September 2023, and the Browns will need to navigate these changes effectively to achieve their goals.
As the team approaches its first game, maintaining stability in the quarterback position will be essential. With Watson unavailable, Flacco’s leadership and the potential contributions of both Gabriel and Sanders will be critical to the Browns’ success in the early part of the season.
