Bold Move or Missed Opportunity? Browns Shock Draft Watchers by Selecting Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel at No. 94, Passing on Shedeur Sanders — Did Cleveland Just Make a Franchise-Altering Decision?
In a move that stunned NFL analysts and ignited fierce debate across social media, the Cleveland Browns used their No. 94 overall pick to select Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel, officially closing out their Day 2 draft strategy. But it wasn’t just who they picked — it was who they didn’t.
Shedeur Sanders, one of the most highly anticipated quarterback prospects of the class, remained on the board — and many expected the Browns to snatch him up. Instead, they turned to Gabriel, a decision that could either be remembered as a bold stroke of genius or a costly misstep that echoes for years.
The Case for Dillon Gabriel
Dillon Gabriel enters the NFL with a résumé built on consistency, leadership, and production. During his time at Oregon (after transferring from Oklahoma), Gabriel threw for over 4,200 yards and 37 touchdowns with only 7 interceptions. Scouts praised his quick release, high football IQ, and poise under pressure.
At 5’11”, Gabriel lacks ideal size for the prototypical NFL quarterback, but his compact frame and elite footwork allow him to maneuver inside and outside the pocket. He’s known for his efficient reads, touch passes, and ability to extend plays without taking unnecessary risks.
“Gabriel is a pro-ready quarterback who understands how to run a modern spread offense,” said NFL analyst Louis Riddick. “He might not wow you with arm strength, but he will not lose you games with bad decisions. In the right system, he can absolutely flourish.”
For the Browns, who already have Deshaun Watson under a massive long-term contract but face questions about depth and future stability, Gabriel offers a reliable, low-risk investment at the position — a player who can develop behind the scenes and step in if necessary.
The Shedeur Sanders Dilemma
On the other hand, passing up Shedeur Sanders — the highly touted son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders — is a move that carries major risk.
Sanders, who lit up college football at Colorado, boasts a dynamic skillset: strong arm, mobility, and a gunslinger mentality that can electrify an offense. His numbers were eye-popping: 3,945 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and 6 rushing scores in a single season.
Yet concerns lingered about Sanders’ ability to adapt to NFL speed and defensive complexity. Some scouts questioned his mechanics under pressure and his tendency to hold onto the ball too long. Even so, his upside is seen as considerably higher than Gabriel’s — and that’s where the controversy begins.
“Passing on a player with Shedeur’s ceiling at 94 is a risky gamble,” said former Browns GM Michael Lombardi. “If he blossoms into a star somewhere else, Cleveland will be haunted by this decision.”
Fan Reaction: A City Divided
Within minutes of the announcement, Browns Twitter exploded. Some fans praised the move as smart, measured, and responsible, emphasizing Cleveland’s need for maturity and a steady hand in the quarterback room.
Others were furious, believing the Browns once again played it safe when they should have swung for greatness.
“You don’t pass on a Ferrari because you’re worried about the maintenance costs,” one fan tweeted. “Shedeur could’ve been a superstar here.”
Browns Front Office Stands Firm
General Manager Andrew Berry addressed the media shortly after Day 2 concluded, reaffirming the team’s confidence in Gabriel.
“We evaluated every option thoroughly,” Berry said. “Dillon embodies everything we want in a Cleveland Brown — toughness, intelligence, leadership. We’re thrilled to add him to our quarterback room.”
When asked directly about passing on Sanders, Berry simply replied, “We made the best decision for our team, both for now and the future.”
What’s Next?
Time will tell whether the Browns’ decision will pay off. Gabriel will likely begin his career as a developmental project, learning behind Watson while competing with backup Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Shedeur Sanders — wherever he lands — and how his career unfolds. If he becomes a star, Cleveland’s choice will be endlessly scrutinized. If he struggles, the Browns’ faith in Gabriel may be seen as a masterstroke of patience and evaluation.
For now, the city of Cleveland watches and waits — holding its breath, once
again, over the future of its quarterbacks.
