3 Overreactions to Dillon Gabriel’s Preseason Debut with Browns: A Deep Dive into the Hype

Dillon Gabriel, the highly anticipated rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, made his preseason debut recently, and the internet exploded with reactions. Some were positive, others were less kind, but it’s clear that Gabriel’s performance stirred up plenty of emotions. As is often the case with early preseason games, fans and analysts tend to overreact—both for better and for worse. Here are three overreactions that have been making the rounds after Gabriel’s debut.

1. “Dillon Gabriel is the future of the Browns’ quarterback position!”
After just one preseason game, many fans and pundits were quick to label Dillon Gabriel as the next franchise quarterback for the Browns. Gabriel showed promise, and there were flashes of his potential, but it’s important to remember that this was just his first game in a very controlled preseason environment. As exciting as his performance was, the hype surrounding him as the clear future of the franchise is premature. Preseason games are designed to evaluate depth, not crown future stars. Gabriel’s journey is far from complete, and it’s far too early to crown him as the answer at quarterback.

2. “Gabriel’s performance guarantees a QB controversy in Cleveland.”
Another overreaction that emerged after Gabriel’s debut was the belief that his performance would immediately ignite a quarterback controversy in Cleveland. While Gabriel played well, he was still far from flawless, and veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson remains the clear starter heading into the season. Gabriel may have impressed in limited action, but the idea that his performance will suddenly create turmoil in the locker room is a stretch. Watson has the starting job, and it will take more than a few good throws in a preseason game to even begin to spark a controversy.

3. “Gabriel is destined to fail in the NFL!”
On the flip side, some reactions were overwhelmingly negative. Despite showing solid poise and accuracy, Gabriel was also criticized by some for perceived inconsistencies or mistakes during his debut. The reality is, rookie quarterbacks often struggle in their first game, and Gabriel’s first preseason appearance was no different. Jumping to conclusions and writing him off after one game does a disservice to his development. Quarterbacks—especially rookies—need time to adjust, and it’s unfair to claim that Gabriel is destined to fail based on limited preseason action.

While it’s natural to have strong reactions to preseason performances, Dillon Gabriel’s debut with the Browns should be viewed through a more measured lens. The hype, both positive and negative, is often exaggerated in the early stages of a player’s career, and Gabriel’s true potential will become clearer as the regular season unfolds.