The Browns have a change at the quarterback position for Week 5, as rookie QB Dillon Gabriel has been named the starting quarterback.
This is Gabriel's first NFL start at quarterback after he was originally named the backup quarterback on Aug. 26.
Gabriel has seen game action in two regular season games, entering late in the fourth quarter during Week 2 against the Ravens and Week 4 against the Lions. He completed 3 of 3 passing attempts for 19 yards and one touchdown in Week 2, finding RB Dylan Sampson in the end zone each for their first career touchdowns. Gabriel then did not complete his lone passing attempt in Week 4 against the Lions.
Over the course of training camp, joint practices and the preseason, Gabriel demonstrated his ability to move the offense down the field, operate in the pocket and connect with receivers – all factoring into the initial decision for Gabriel to serve as the backup.
The four-man quarterback competition during training camp originally concluded with Joe Flacco earning the starting job. The 18-year veteran was at the helm of the offense for the first four games of the 2025 season, and the Browns have a 1-3 record through the first stretch of games. Flacco completed 93 of 160 passing attempts for 815 passing yards and two touchdowns.
Now, as the Browns travel on Wednesday to London and prepare to play the Vikings in Week 5, Gabriel has earned his chance to lead the Browns' offense.
The Browns will serve as the home team for the matchup at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 5.
