Cleveland Browns Select Dillon Gabriel as Quarterback in NFL Draft

BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns concluded Day 2 of the NFL Draft by selecting quarterback Dillon Gabriel from Oregon with the 94th overall pick on Friday night.

Gabriel, who had a successful college career, became the fifth quarterback taken in this year’s draft. The selection comes as a surprise to many, as other top quarterbacks were still available, including Shedeur Sanders.

The 5-foot-11, 205-pound Gabriel made 63 starts across his time at UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon. He finished his career tied for the most passing touchdowns in NCAA history with 155 and ranks second with 18,722 passing yards. Last season, Gabriel earned the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and was named a third-team All-American.

“I’ve been playing quarterback from a young age and have stepped into top-tier programs that demand success,” Gabriel said after being drafted. “So, I’m built for this. I’m ready for this.”

Browns general manager Andrew Berry expressed confidence in Gabriel, stating, “We thought he had a really well-rounded game; the biggest negative is his height, but that wasn’t an issue in his performance.”

This marks the Browns’ first quarterback selection in the draft since they chose Dorian Thompson-Robinson in 2023. This decision comes at a pivotal moment for the franchise, which has been trying to find stability at the quarterback position since its return to the NFL in 1999.

Following their trade for Deshaun Watson, who is expected to miss a significant portion of the season due to an injury, the Browns are looking to young talent to bolster their quarterback lineup. Devontae McCoy was also signed in free agency.

Gabriel is excited about the opportunity to compete for the starting position and contribute to the team. “I only know how to be a starter, but I also know that a healthy quarterback room is important,” he said.

As the Browns look ahead, they hope Gabriel can be a key piece in building a more consistent and successful future.