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Bobby Brown: Cleveland Legend Declares Dillon Gabriel Has an NFL Future

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, December 14th 2025 at 8:30 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: Ohio, UNITED STATES

A Cleveland Browns Legend Says Dillon Gabriel Has an NFL Future

A recent interview on Sporting News with former Cleveland Browns star Bobby Brown has reignited the conversation around Dillon Gabriel’s career prospects. Brown, who spent 12 seasons in Cleveland as a stalwart defensive tackle, told reporters that he is “unapologetic” about Gabriel’s potential to become a franchise quarterback, a sentiment that many Browns fans and analysts have taken as a hopeful sign.

Who is Bobby Brown?

Brown was one of the first three‑letter‑name powerhouses of the 1970s and early ’80s, known for his imposing presence on the defensive line and his relentless work ethic. After a Hall‑of‑Fame‑worthy run in Cleveland, he later transitioned to broadcasting and coaching, often commenting on the game from the sidelines. His opinions are highly respected among Browns circles, and his endorsement of a young quarterback is therefore not taken lightly.

Dillon Gabriel: A Quick Recap

Gabriel was the 16th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and came into the league as a promising, albeit unproven, quarterback from Wake Forest. He was originally signed by the Minnesota Vikings before being traded to the Browns in 2021. Since returning to Cleveland, Gabriel has served mostly in a backup role behind rookie starter Deshaun Watson and veteran Jameis Winston, with limited playing time in the regular season and only a handful of preseason starts.

Despite the slow progress, Gabriel has shown flashes of the raw talent that made him a first‑round pick: a strong arm, decent footwork, and a willingness to study the playbook. Brown emphasized that Gabriel’s work ethic—something he knows well from his own career—makes him a candidate worth keeping.

Brown’s Take on Gabriel’s Future

“Dillon’s got the stuff to be an NFL quarterback,” Brown told Sporting News. “He’s worked hard, and the Browns know what’s needed. I’m not apologizing about his future—I just see a path.” When asked whether he believed Gabriel would become the long‑term starter for Cleveland, Brown answered, “Sure, if you give him the opportunity.”

Brown’s comments carry extra weight because they come from a former player who has seen the inside of an NFL locker room and understands what it takes to stay productive at the top level. He further elaborated that Gabriel’s recent performances in the Browns’ training camps—where he logged a 3‑week intensive arm‑strengthening regimen—showed tangible improvement in decision‑making.

The Browns’ Quarterback Puzzle

The interview also touched on the bigger issue: Cleveland’s struggle to secure a franchise quarterback. The Browns have gone through a string of high‑draft picks at the position (including 2022 first‑rounder Jalen Hurts, now with the Eagles) and several free‑agent signings. With Watson’s contract still in limbo and Winston’s injury concerns, the team’s depth chart remains uncertain.

Brown noted that the franchise has been willing to invest in players who show potential, regardless of their initial draft position. “They’re not going to make a rookie the starter overnight,” he said. “But they’re looking for a quarterback who can lead a team.”

Gabriel’s Strengths and Weaknesses

According to the Sporting News piece, Gabriel’s strengths include:

• Arm Strength: He can launch deep passes and complete short throws under pressure.
• Mobility: While not a pure runner, Gabriel can extend plays and step up into the pocket.
• Leadership: His calm demeanor on the sideline is noted by teammates and coaches alike.

Weaknesses highlighted were:

• Reading Defense: At times, Gabriel struggles with complex defensive fronts.
• Decision Speed: He can sometimes hesitate before delivering a pass.
• Consistency: Early in his career, the ups and downs in performance made it hard to gauge his true potential.

Brown said that these weaknesses are natural for a young player and that the Browns’ coaching staff has been focusing on addressing them through film study and practice drills.

A Call for Patience

In closing, Brown urged fans and management to give Gabriel a chance. “He’s a hard‑working player,” he stated. “The Browns need to be patient and allow him to develop in the right environment.” The article concluded with a quote from the Browns’ offensive coordinator, who echoed this sentiment: “We want a quarterback who can adapt and grow with us.”

Additional Context

A follow‑up link in the Sporting News piece leads to a video clip where Brown discusses the historical significance of quarterback development in Cleveland, referencing former star Jim Brown’s early days. Another link provides statistics on Gabriel’s college and professional performance, offering readers a data‑driven perspective on his progression.

The interview’s timing is notable, coming a week after the Browns announced a new practice squad arrangement that may grant Gabriel more playtime in the upcoming season. It is also part of a broader media narrative about the Browns’ search for a durable, long‑term quarterback solution.

Bottom Line

Bobby Brown’s statement—that Dillon Gabriel “has an NFL future”—may be seen as more than a simple endorsement. It is a nod to the grit and perseverance required to succeed at the highest level of the sport. For Browns fans still hoping for a homegrown quarterback, Brown’s words offer a glimmer of optimism: a chance for a player who, while still developing, has proven himself to be a hard worker, ready to rise when the opportunity arrives.