The Cleveland Browns made a strategic move that shook the team. They benched Joe Flacco, and his replacement is not Shedeur Sanders. Instead, the franchise chose another rookie quarterback to take on the challenge in Week 5 against the Vikings.
Reports confirm it will be Dillon Gabriel, the former Oregon star, who steps in as starter. Flacco drops to backup, while Sanders remains the third option. ESPN first reported the news.
A strategic move aimed at reviving the Browns
According to the New York Post, the Browns opened the season 1–3, a disappointing start for the franchise. Last week, they suffered a 34–10 blowout loss to the Lions. In that game, Flacco completed only 47.1% of his passes, with zero touchdowns and two interceptions. Over the last three games, he averaged just 175 passing yards—among the lowest in the league.
Change in Cleveland: Browns are benching veteran QB Joe Flacco in favor of rookie QB Dillon Gabriel, per sources. The Browns were informed of the change this morning.
Gabriel’s first NFL start comes Sunday in London vs. the Vikings. pic.twitter.com/lUV1W5RQob— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 1, 2025
Because of this poor performance, the Browns benched the Super Bowl champion and turned to Gabriel to improve their offense. Still, it won’t be an easy task for the rookie, as he will face Vikings’ Brian Flores, who holds a 7–1 record against rookie quarterbacks.
This decision gives Gabriel a chance to prove his skills on the field. Sanders remains buried on the bench, and while he may get an opportunity later, the Browns believe he needs more preparation before becoming a starter.
