Dillon Gabriel opens up on Browns QB competition, preseason injury

Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, August 14th 2025 at 11:54 GMT by Ducks Wire
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Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel spoke to the media Wednesday about his injury and the state of the team's quarterback competition.

Dillon Gabriel Opens Up on Browns QB Situation and His Own Journey

In a candid interview, Oregon Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel delved into his thoughts on the Cleveland Browns' ongoing quarterback challenges, drawing parallels to his own experiences in college football. Gabriel, known for his poise under pressure and impressive collegiate career, didn't hold back when discussing the Browns' struggles, particularly focusing on Deshaun Watson's performance and the team's broader offensive woes. As a lifelong football enthusiast with roots in Hawaii, Gabriel has followed the NFL closely, and his insights provide a fresh perspective from a rising star who understands the mental and physical demands of the position.

Gabriel began by acknowledging the immense pressure that comes with being an NFL quarterback, especially in a market like Cleveland where fans are passionate and expectations are high. He pointed out that Watson, acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Houston Texans in 2022, has faced significant scrutiny due to off-field issues, injuries, and inconsistent play on the field. "It's tough when you're expected to be the savior of a franchise," Gabriel remarked. "Deshaun has all the tools – the arm strength, the mobility – but football is a team game, and sometimes the pieces around you aren't clicking." Gabriel emphasized how the Browns' offensive line struggles and receiver inconsistencies have compounded Watson's difficulties, leading to a season where the team has hovered around mediocrity despite a stout defense.

Drawing from his own career, Gabriel reflected on the importance of resilience. Having transferred from UCF to Oklahoma and now to Oregon, he's no stranger to adapting to new systems and overcoming setbacks. At UCF, he burst onto the scene as a freshman, throwing for over 3,000 yards and leading the Knights to a strong season. But injuries and team changes forced him to evolve. "I've had games where nothing goes right, where the protection breaks down or the play-calling doesn't sync," he shared. "It's about bouncing back, studying film, and trusting your preparation." Gabriel sees a similar path for Watson, suggesting that the Browns need to commit to building around him rather than constantly questioning his role. He praised Watson's work ethic, noting how the quarterback has been vocal about his commitment to improvement despite the noise from critics and fans alike.

The conversation shifted to the broader NFL landscape, where Gabriel expressed admiration for quarterbacks who have turned franchises around, like Patrick Mahomes with the Chiefs or Joe Burrow with the Bengals. "Those guys had rough starts too, but they had stability," Gabriel said. For the Browns, he believes the key lies in coaching consistency and roster support. He specifically mentioned the impact of head coach Kevin Stefanski, whom he respects for his offensive schemes, but noted that injuries to key players like Nick Chubb have disrupted the team's rhythm. Gabriel even touched on the Browns' decision to bring in Jameis Winston as a backup, calling it a smart move for depth but questioning if it's enough to challenge Watson effectively. "Competition breeds excellence," he added, "but you have to give your starter the confidence to lead."

Beyond the Browns, Gabriel opened up about his own aspirations and how observing NFL quarterbacks influences his game. As he prepares for what could be his final college season at Oregon, Gabriel is focused on leading the Ducks to a national championship. He highlighted his growth under coach Dan Lanning, crediting the program's emphasis on mental toughness. "Oregon has given me the platform to refine my skills – reading defenses, making quick decisions, and staying healthy," he explained. Gabriel's stats speak for themselves: in his time at Oklahoma, he threw for nearly 7,000 yards and 42 touchdowns over two seasons, showcasing his accuracy and leadership. Now at Oregon, he's adapting to the Pac-12's competitive environment, which he believes mirrors the intensity of the NFL.

Gabriel also shared personal anecdotes that tie into his views on quarterbacking. Growing up in Mililani, Hawaii, he idolized players like Marcus Mariota, another Hawaiian who succeeded in the NFL. "Marcus showed me that island kids can make it big," Gabriel said. This background fuels his empathy for Watson, who has dealt with personal and professional turbulence. Gabriel stressed the mental health aspect of the game, advocating for quarterbacks to have strong support systems. "The spotlight is brutal; one bad game, and the world turns on you. But true greats use that as fuel."

Looking ahead, Gabriel speculated on the Browns' future. He suggested that if Watson can't regain his Pro Bowl form, the team might look to the draft or free agency, but he warned against knee-jerk reactions. "Patience is key in building a winner," he noted, referencing successful rebuilds like the Detroit Lions under Jared Goff. Gabriel's optimism stems from the Browns' defensive prowess, led by Myles Garrett, which he believes can carry the team while the offense gels.

In wrapping up, Gabriel expressed excitement for his own NFL prospects, hinting that he'd love to play for a team like the Browns someday – a franchise with grit and a loyal fanbase. "Cleveland fans deserve a winner, and I think they're close," he concluded. His insights not only shed light on the Browns' QB dilemma but also highlight the universal challenges of the position, from college to the pros. As Gabriel continues to shine at Oregon, his words serve as a reminder that quarterback success is as much about perseverance and team synergy as it is about individual talent.

This interview underscores Gabriel's maturity beyond his years, positioning him as a thoughtful voice in football discussions. Whether analyzing pro struggles or reflecting on his path, Gabriel's perspective is grounded in experience and passion for the game, offering hope to teams like the Browns navigating turbulent waters. (Word count: 852)

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