Browns' QB decision answered with Gabriel on IR
CLEVELAND — The most talked-about question of the Browns' roster cutdown — whether they'd carry four quarterbacks — was answered with a twist. The team placed second-year signal-caller Dillon Gabriel on injured reserve with a back injury, designating him to return. He will miss at least the first four games of the season while remaining part of the organization.
Gabriel's move to IR came after he completed 12 of 15 passes for 186 yards and three touchdowns in Cleveland's preseason finale against the New England Patriots. He was later listed as a healthy scratch in practice ahead of the team's regular season opener.
Roster construction and analysis
The roster now features Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Taylen Green on the active roster, technically holding onto all four quarterbacks without occupying four active spots. Browns beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot told the Orange and Brown Talk podcast she felt this was always the plan.
"I texted you guys earlier, maybe a couple of hours before this announcement and I sort of felt like there was an IR stash going on here," Cabot said. "And so lo and behold, that's what's going on. I'm sure, of course he has a back injury, but it's kind of a convenient back injury because now during this time, during this four-week period, they have an opportunity to try to develop Taylen Green to the point where he can possibly be their No. 3 quarterback."
The move also gives the coaching staff what they haven't had much of this offseason: time to work with Green. As a fourth-stringer in camp, Green was getting minimal reps, and Cabot noted at least three teams were circling him as a potential practice squad claim.
What that means for the player and team
Gabriel, an Oregon Ducks star and Heisman Trophy finalist, had a strong showing against the Patriots, following two difficult preseason games. He told reporters the performance was encouraging after receiving limited practice repetitions.
"I don't think frustrating is the word," Gabriel said. "I think challenging is. It's interesting, as somebody who just comes to work every day and tries to put one foot in front of the other, maximize what you get. That's all I've tried to do."
The Browns open the season Sept. 13 at Jacksonville. They'll play at the New York Jets in Week 5, which could mark Gabriel's earliest return. Until then, he said he'd focus on taking advantage of the opportunities he gets.