The Cleveland Browns enter the 2025 season with one of the most unpredictable quarterback situations in the NFL.
Four names sit atop the depth chart, each bringing different strengths and question marks to what promises to be a fascinating competition.
Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders represent vastly different paths for a franchise still searching for stability under center.
While the competition appears wide open, one analyst believes the outcome may surprise many fans.
PFF analyst Thomas Valentine recently weighed in on the Browns’ quarterback battle, making a bold prediction about Shedeur Sanders emerging as the starter.
“Narratives or outside optics won’t matter too much to the Browns; the goal is purely to put the most talented quarterback under center. And even if none of their options project to be the long-term answer, Sanders could be the starter for 2025. He has reportedly impressed in OTAs, and while there will be some noise regarding how he found his way to the team, his talent is undeniable,” Valentine said.
The Browns find themselves in a unique position after years of quarterback instability.
Still recovering from the Deshaun Watson fallout and the post-Baker Mayfield era, Cleveland needs more than just a quick fix.
Flacco brings veteran leadership at 40 years old, but his role likely centers more around mentoring younger quarterbacks than serving as a season-long starter.
His 2023 heroics provided temporary relief, yet age remains a limiting factor.
Pickett arrives as his third NFL stop, carrying more journeyman credentials than breakout potential.
Meanwhile, Gabriel enters as a third-round investment whose ceiling remains uncertain.
Sanders represents the wild card despite falling to the fifth round.
His 91.0 grade from last season demonstrates clear ability, and early OTA reports suggest he’s making the right impression.
The Browns may find themselves choosing potential over proven track records.
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