Dillon Gabriel Drafted by the Cleveland Browns Amid QB Controversy

Dillon Gabriel Lands with the Cleveland Browns: Fantasy and Betting Outlook

Dillon Gabriel: A Surprising Yet Intriguing Fit in Cleveland

The Browns spent a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Gabriel, the productive quarterback out of Oregon. It’s a fascinating landing spot given the Browns’ current quarterback mess. Deshaun Watson’s future is murky at best — between injuries, off-field concerns, and public comments from ownership admitting mistakes, it’s not a stretch to wonder if he’s even part of the team’s long-term plans anymore.

Gabriel, meanwhile, steps into a situation where there are real opportunities. He’s not ready to start Week 1, but with Watson’s uncertainty and only Joe Flacco (now 40) as the main veteran backup, Gabriel could be just an injury or poor performance away from getting his shot.

In terms of skillset, Gabriel brings a strong arm, mobility, and a winning pedigree. He isn’t an elite prospect, but he’s the kind of player who could thrive if given competent protection and a system that plays to his strengths. In Cleveland, he also has the benefit of a still-solid defense and decent offensive weapons around him.

Fantasy Football Implications: Deep Sleeper Watch

From a fantasy perspective, Gabriel should be considered a deep stash in superflex and dynasty formats.

• Dynasty Leagues: Gabriel makes for a great speculative add. Third-round draft capital suggests Cleveland at least wants to give him a chance to develop. In the right circumstances, he could find himself starting games as soon as late 2025.

• Redraft Leagues: In standard 1QB leagues, Gabriel doesn’t need to be drafted. In superflex formats, however, he’s a name to monitor closely.

• Potential Role: If he shows out in preseason or if Watson/Flacco falter, Gabriel could become a hot waiver-wire add by midseason.

Betting Angle: How to Wager on Gabriel and the Browns

Gabriel’s presence subtly shifts how bettors should view Cleveland futures.

• Browns Win Total: If you’re bearish on Watson’s health and play, betting the Browns’ season win total under could make sense. Trusting a rookie quarterback to save the season is risky.

• Rookie of the Year Longshot: Gabriel will likely be a deep longshot (100/1 or more) for Offensive Rookie of the Year. If you want a pure dart throw, he’s an interesting stash ticket if the Watson situation goes nuclear.

• Preseason Player Props: If Gabriel shines in August, look for overs on preseason passing yards or touchdowns, especially if Flacco sees limited reps.

Final Word: Gabriel’s Path Isn’t Immediate, But It’s Real

The Gabriel pick won’t send shockwaves through fantasy football just yet, but the path to relevance is clearer than you’d expect for a third-rounder. With Watson’s future in serious doubt and only aging Joe Flacco ahead of him, Gabriel could become a meaningful contributor sooner than later.

Verdict: In dynasty leagues, stash Dillon Gabriel. In betting, watch for preseason player props and keep an eye on Browns win total under if you’re skeptical about their quarterback situation.

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