Stefanski Evaluates Backup Quarterback Situation for the Browns
Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski was cautious when talking about who will be the team’s backup quarterback after the trade of Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals. On Tuesday, Cleveland agreed to trade Flacco along with a sixth-round pick in 2026 to the Bengals, in exchange for a fifth-round pick in 2026. This leaves Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel as the only quarterbacks on the active roster. Stefanski indicated that he will make a decision on the QB2 position later in the week.Stefanski also avoided confirming whether the team will elevate Bailey Zappe to the active roster before Sunday’s game, so that one of the backups can act as an inactive emergency quarterback. Last week, Stefanski confirmed that Gabriel received opportunities with the starting offense as a substitute. When asked if Sanders and Zappe would share some repetitions with the first team this week, Stefanski replied: “We need to analyze everything. I really like the players we have. We just have to work on everything.” Sanders, selected at pick 144 of this year’s draft, has been inactive as the Browns’ third and emergency quarterback in the first five games. Following Flacco’s trade, Cleveland included Sanders as their No. 2 QB on this week’s unofficial depth chart. Stefanski mentioned that any decision he makes will be focused on the well-being and development of his players. Flacco was the starter in the first four games before being replaced by Gabriel, who debuted as a starter last Sunday, in the 21-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in London. Stefanski stated that the transfer “took us by surprise” and that the Bengals contacted the team to negotiate. Deshaun Watson remains on the physically unable to perform list while recovering from an Achilles tendon injury. Stefanski did not provide an update on his possible return to practice, but stated that “he is doing an excellent job with his rehabilitation”.All decisions related to the roster, I must always take into account the development of our players. I want to make sure I do what’s best for them and, of course, for the team. With young players, I’m always thinking about that.
Kevin Stefanski
