Browns make an unorthodox move at QB as 53-man rosters are finalized
The Browns seem to be taking an unexpected approach at quarterback to start the season.
The Cleveland Browns have made an unorthodox move in the quarterback room as they finalize their 53-man roster for the 2026 season. While Deshaun Watson is expected to be the starting quarterback, reports indicate that both Dillon Gabriel and the team's sixth-round 2026 NFL Draft pick, Taylen Green, will also be part of the initial 53-man roster. This decision sets the Browns apart from many other teams that typically select just one or two quarterbacks for the season.
Both Gabriel and Green were considered uncertain prospects heading into the preseason. Gabriel struggled in the early games, going 5-for-9 for 23 yards and one interception in his first two outings. However, he performed significantly better in the team's final preseason contest, throwing for 186 yards and three touchdowns while rushing eight times for 66 yards, including a 30-yard run.
Green, on the other hand, made his debut in the team's final preseason game and impressed with nearly half of the team's offensive snaps. He completed five of seven passes for 27 yards and added 66 yards on eight rushes, including a 30-yard run.
Despite Gabriel's strong performance in the preseason finale, Watson looked less impressive in his last preseason appearance, completing only five of twelve passes for 36 yards and one interception. This unorthodox move by the Browns suggests they believe in the potential of both Gabriel and Green to compete for the backup role alongside Watson.
With the Browns starting three different quarterbacks last season, it is evident that all four quarterbacks could potentially earn the starting role before the 2026 season concludes.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
