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Browns Stick With Dillon Gabriel for Week 11 as Watson’s Return Window Remains Shut

The decision follows a delay on Deshaun Watson’s return-to-practice designation.

Overview

  • Head coach Kevin Stefanski reaffirmed, “We’re going to stick with Dillon,” keeping the rookie as QB1 against the Ravens after a Week 10 loss dropped Cleveland to 2-7.
  • Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot reports the team will not open Deshaun Watson’s 21-day practice window this week and will reassess no earlier than Week 12, with Watson described as making “excellent progress.”
  • Shedeur Sanders remains on the bench, though multiple reporters, including CBS SportsJonathan Jones, predict he will start at least once this season if results do not improve.
  • Gabriel drew an NFL Rookie of the Week nomination after posting 167 passing yards, two touchdowns, 54 rushing yards and six sacks in the loss to the Jets, a move that drew criticism from some fans.
  • League insiders note Cleveland could pivot to the 2026 draft—where it holds multiple first-round picks—if neither rookie seizes the job, with Watson’s fully guaranteed deal and reported insurance considerations shaping the team’s calculus.