Dillon Gabriel Ripped for Perceived Shot at Browns’ Playmakers
Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel earned the first win of his NFL career in Week 7, though he received as much or more criticism following the game than he did after either of his first two starts, both of which were losses.
“What they have going on right now, it is not working,” Mary Kay Cabot said on the Orange and Brown Talk podcast on Wednesday, October 22. “It’s unsustainable and must change.”
Gabriel went 13-of-18 for 116 yards in the Browns’ 25-point bludgeoning of the Miami Dolphins last Sunday. The third-round rookie out of Oregon has yet to throw an interception, while tallying 546 passing yards and three TDs in five appearances.
But Cleveland’s offense lacks dynamism of any sort outside of the run game, where fellow rookie Quinshon Judkins has made considerable noise with five touchdowns and nearly 500 yards in six outings.
Primary criticisms of Gabriel are that he’s too focused on game management and isn’t doing what’s necessary to make explosive plays. Reporters asked Gabriel about that issue during a media session Wednesday.
“Like I’ve said before, you want explosives in the pass game — not only vertical throws, but also maybe a five-yard throw that can go for 20,” Gabriel said. “So any explosives really help.”
Popular social media aggregator Dov Kleiman took exception with Gabriel’s answer, accusing him of taking a shot at his playmakers and blaming them for the team’s lack of explosiveness.
“Wild: Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel hopes that his receivers can help him get some ‘explosive’ plays, and would like to see a ‘5-yard throw go for 20,'” Kleiman posted to X. “Shedeur Sanders needs to start this week.”
Shedeur Sanders Not Getting Any Work With Browns’ First-Team Offense in Practice
GettyCleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
While not everyone would agree with Kleiman that Gabriel was throwing his pass-catchers under the bus with his comments Wednesday, there is a groundswell of support for the notion that Sanders should get his shot sooner than later.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski set a fire across the Cleveland media landscape with an admission he made during Wednesday’s press conference about how he’s been preparing Sanders for what will likely be a chance to start at least a game or two at some point later in the season. A reporter specifically asked Stefanski if Sanders is getting any reps with the first-team in practice, as Gabriel was back when Joe Flacco was the starter earlier in the campaign.
“No,” Stefanski responded. “I mean, with a young quarterback, with Dillon starting, you want to make sure he gets a lot of reps. Different when you have a veteran like Joe. But [Sanders is] still getting reps in a bunch of periods.”
Browns Near Bottom of NFL in All Major Offensive Categories
GettyHead coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland is 30th in total offense with 270.7 yards per game and 30th in passing with 178.3 yards per outing.
As a result, the Browns are also 30th in the league with just 16.1 points scored per contest.
Cleveland is 2-5 and will travel to square off against the New England Patriots (5-2) on Sunday before heading into a bye week ahead of the league’s November 4 trade deadline.
BREAKING: Cleveland Browns Owner Jimmy Haslam Issues Strong Statement Condemning Racist Behavior Among Fans
In a powerful and unwavering statement, Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has condemned recent reports of racist behavior among fans during home games, calling such actions "completely unacceptable, disgraceful, and directly opposed to the values that the Cleveland Browns and our community uphold." This comes in response to alarming reports of racial slurs and discriminatory actions allegedly taking place at FirstEnergy Stadium, prompting Haslam to take immediate and decisive action.
“Racism has no place at FirstEnergy Stadium, in Cleveland, or in the NFL,” Haslam declared, his tone firm and resolute. “These actions are not only disrespectful, but they go against the very foundation of inclusivity, respect, and sportsmanship that the Browns have always stood for. The Browns organization is built on unity, and we will not tolerate any behavior that undermines those core values.”
Haslam’s statement comes after disturbing reports from recent Browns home games, where fans were allegedly seen or heard using racial slurs and engaging in discriminatory behavior. These incidents have raised serious concerns about racism in sports, and Haslam made it clear that the Browns will take immediate steps to ensure that such behavior is eradicated from their fanbase.
“We are a team for all people, and Cleveland is a city known for its diversity,” Haslam continued. “Our fans represent a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, and communities, and we take immense pride in that diversity. Every fan should feel safe, respected, and valued when they come to FirstEnergy Stadium. We will not allow hatred or bigotry to have a place in our stadium.”
To address these incidents, Haslam announced that the Browns would be strictly enforcing the team’s Fan Code of Conduct, which explicitly prohibits hate speech, discrimination, and any actions that create a hostile or unsafe environment. He emphasized that any individual found engaging in racist or discriminatory behavior will face permanent bans from attending future games at FirstEnergy Stadium. Additionally, the Browns are working to enhance security measures and raise awareness among fans about the team’s commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming environment for all.
“We will not turn a blind eye to this,” Haslam stated. “Anyone found promoting hate or racism will face permanent bans from the stadium. This is a zero-tolerance policy. We are committed to making FirstEnergy Stadium a place where all fans can enjoy the game in a safe and inclusive environment.”
Haslam’s swift and decisive response has been praised across the NFL, with many applauding his leadership in confronting the issue head-on. “Jimmy Haslam is showing the leadership that all team owners should embrace when addressing racism,” said NFL analyst and former player Louis Riddick. “It’s important for organizations to send a strong message, and Haslam is doing just that.”
In addition to enforcing the Fan Code of Conduct, the Browns have pledged to work more closely with local community groups and organizations to promote inclusivity and combat racism both inside and outside the stadium. Haslam emphasized that the team’s efforts will extend beyond enforcing policies, focusing on creating a long-term culture of respect, unity, and inclusivity.
As the NFL continues to confront issues of racism, Haslam’s statement serves as a strong reminder that sports should be about unity, respect, and the shared love of the game. The Cleveland Browns are sending a clear message: racism will not be tolerated, and they are prepared to take bold action to ensure that every fan feels safe and respected at FirstEnergy Stadium.
“We will not allow hatred or bigotry to be part of our game. Every fan should feel safe, respected, and valued when they come to our stadium.” — Jimmy Haslam
With his commitment to making FirstEnergy Stadium a place where racism and hate have no place, Jimmy Haslam is setting an example for the entire NFL, proving that leadership in the fight against racism begins at the top and resonates throughout the organization.
