Cleveland Browns cut rookie QB Shedeur Sanders in June 2025 despite a strong camp. Coach Stefanski shakes up QB room (Watson, Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel).
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Hold onto your helmets, Browns fans! In a move that's reverberating through Berea, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who just days ago was turning heads with his pinpoint accuracy, is reportedly OUT. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski is clearly not afraid to make bold decisions, and this sudden departure from a crowded quarterback room is the biggest shocker yet as the team gears up for the 2025 season.
The unexpected departure of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders being the most notable move.
It's a whirlwind in the Browns' quarterback saga. Shedeur Sanders, the rookie QB who was consistently impressing onlookers and even 'outperforming other quarterbacks' in team activities, is now reportedly gone. Despite earlier 'rumors of his departure,' his performance – marked by sharp accuracy and 'minimal mistakes' – had many fans believing he was a serious contender, even in a room with Deshaun Watson, veteran Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. His strong showing, including what was noted as 'Shedeur Sanders Showing Accuracy in Browns Practice,' makes this news all the more perplexing and has left many wondering about the behind-the-scenes calculus.
As one rookie QB story takes a sharp turn, another begins. Dillon Gabriel has officially inked his rookie contract, making him the newest member of Cleveland's quarterback corps. Selected 94th overall in the third round – notably 50 spots ahead of where Sanders was picked – Gabriel arrives with a decorated collegiate career. He's the FBS Division I all-time leader in total touchdowns with a staggering 189, 155 of those through the air. His arrival adds another layer of competition and talent to a room that, even with Sanders' departure, is anything but settled.
This isn't just about one player; it's about a broader strategy. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski is 'transforming' the Browns with these 'bold NFL roster moves.' The departure of a promising, camp-standout rookie like Sanders isn't a decision made lightly. It signals that Stefanski and the front office have a very specific vision for the team's composition and future. The Browns appear to be 'implementing a new strategy,' and fans are now keenly watching to decipher what that strategy entails, especially for the crucial quarterback position.
The dust is still settling on a wild Thursday in Berea. Shedeur Sanders' unexpected exit, despite a strong camp, has thrown a curveball, while Dillon Gabriel's official signing adds a fresh dynamic to the quarterback competition. What's clear is that Kevin Stefanski is steering the Browns with a firm hand and a willingness to make tough calls. The road to Week 1 just got a lot more intriguing. Stay tuned, Browns faithful, this QB battle is far from over!
