The Cleveland Browns are set to evaluate Dillon Gabriel’s hamstring condition on Saturday morning. Reports from Jeremy Fowler of ESPN suggest that the team is feeling optimistic about the rookie quarterback starting in their upcoming preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Dillon Gabriel suffered a hamstring strain on August 2, which sidelined him from full participation in practice. However, he has returned to training this week, leading the Browns to believe he is ready to take the field. This is a critical moment for Gabriel, who is looking to make a strong impression during the preseason.
In contrast, the Browns will be without several key quarterbacks for this week’s game. Veteran players Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, along with rookie Shedeur Sanders, will not participate in the matchup against the Eagles. Flacco, a seasoned veteran with 17 years of experience in the league, has opted not to play in the preseason, focusing instead on preparing for the regular season.
Kenny Pickett is still in recovery mode, as he has not returned to team drills while nursing a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders is listed as day-to-day with an oblique injury sustained during a joint practice session with the Eagles on Wednesday. There is hope that Sanders will be able to return to practice as early as next week, potentially allowing him to participate in the preseason finale.
As the situation unfolds, Tyler Huntley emerges as the only other quarterback available for the Browns this weekend. Recently joining the team less than two weeks ago, Huntley will be stepping up to fill the gap left by the injured quarterbacks. His performance in this preseason game could significantly impact his role going forward.
As the Browns prepare for their game against the Eagles, all eyes will be on Dillon Gabriel’s recovery and whether he will take the starting position. The team's ability to navigate these injuries will be crucial as they look to solidify their roster ahead of the regular season.