Cleveland's QB competition has been viewed as Deshaun Watson vs. Shedeur Sanders throughout the offseason, which makes obvious sense. Sanders finished last year as the team's starter, and Watson's still making way too much money to not at least get consideration. But Dillon Gabriel has gained recent praise from HC Todd Monken and should see expanded practice reps.
What They're Saying: Gabriel's Earning More Chances
Monken on Aug. 3: "Everybody's competing, but you're not guaranteed the same amount of reps. So it's up to the player to take advantage and maximize those reps, which I feel like Dillon has done. So we'll see as we move forward, if that continues, we'll continue to up his reps. He's earned that."
More from Monken, via the team website: "He's handled this situation with unbelievable class. Every player wants to compete, and he hasn't really had the opportunity in terms of the number of reps. He's had a chance to compete just with a different number of reps. So I think he's done an unbelievable job that way, and for the lack of reps, he does a great job carrying over the meetings to the field."
2026 Fantasy Football Impact: Probably None
Gabriel's likely not going to start Week 1, even though we don't yet know who will in Cleveland. The best bet for the team at the position seems to be this: Don't expect the same guy to start all 17 games.
Gabriel got drafted ahead of Sanders last year and got his starting shot ahead of Sanders (after Joe Flacco). He played his way into Sanders taking over and finishing out the season. And then the new coach opened a competition between Sanders and Watson.
So we should expect Gabriel to linger in the second or third spot on the depth chart once the season begins. But we'll see if anything changes.
Cleveland also looks like the last QB situation to target in your superflex or 2-QB drafts. Avoid it altogether for 1-QB formats.
Dynasty Impact: Watch for 'Sell' Window
If Gabriel does get a starting shot this year, try to parlay that into a trade for a rookie pick or similar asset.
Gabriel profiles much more like a career backup than a guy destined to hold down an NFL starting gig.
