Dillon Gabriel expresses excitement and focus after being named Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback

Dillon Gabriel is ready to step up and play as the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback.

Gabriel was officially named the starting signal-caller for Cleveland going into Week Five for their match in London against the Minnesota Vikings, marking the end of Veteran Joe Flacco's stint as starter. Interacting with the media just after the announcement, Gabriel shared his excitement to the news.

"I smile because it's a moment you prep for and are extremely excited for. But also have to realize that it's extreme focus. And that's what I continue to harp on. But if you wait for the perfect time, then you're going to wait a lifetime. For me, I've always been ready.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski named the change at quarterback earlier today. Stefanski mentioned that he informed the team of the change this morning, and said it was best for the team, while also saying that Flacco, a skipper of the team, and his leadership will still be important to the organization's success moving forward.

"This is not about one person. Joe is a captain of this football team. We're going to need his leadership going forward, as always. ... [Dillon's] handled everything well since he's been on campus here. So just gonna have to support the young man."

Joe Flacco's struggles as the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback

Flacco signed a one-year, $4 million deal with Cleveland this offseason to play as their starter. He is also serving as a mentor to rookie quarterbacks Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, whom the Browns picked in the 2025 NFL Draft. In his first four matches as the Browns' starter, Flacco struggled heavily.

He has thrown for 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions, providing him a 27 QBR that is ranked 32nd in the competition, per ESPN. The Browns are 1-3 with Flacco under center, as the quarterback has yet to post a QBR above 42 in any match this season. He has registered at least one interceptions in all four of his starts, including two matches with multiple.

Now, Cleveland will change things over to their third-round NFL Draft choice in Gabriel, who played his collegiate football for Oregon. Flacco will play as Gabriel's backup this weekend while Shedeur Sanders remains as the team's third options on the depth chart.

The Cleveland Browns will face the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday in London, England, for their week Five clash.