Browns Face Urgent QB Decision During Bye Week as Offense Struggles
UPDATE: The Cleveland Browns are in crisis mode as they enter their bye week, weighing a critical decision on their struggling offense. With a 2-6 record, the team must choose between sticking with Dillon Gabriel or giving Shedeur Sanders, their much-discussed fifth-round draft pick, a chance to start.
As the Browns assess their lackluster performance, the clock is ticking toward their next matchup on November 9 against the New York Jets. Questions loom over whether a quarterback change could revitalize a stagnant offense that has failed to perform throughout the season.
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “I think it’s by position we have to be better… we’ll look at all of it this week and make a decision coming out of the bye.” This week will prove pivotal as the Browns evaluate their options and prepare for a critical second half of the season.
While Sanders has primarily worked with the scout team, recent developments have raised eyebrows. Deshaun Watson—originally thought to be out for the season due to a second Achilles injury—has been spotted training at the Browns’ facility, raising the possibility of his return. The quarterback’s history and performance have left fans divided, especially after Cleveland traded three first-round picks to acquire him.
Gabriel’s performance thus far has been underwhelming, with a passer rating of just 75.8 and a troubling trend of three-and-outs on 29.5% of his possessions. The Browns’ passing attack is virtually nonexistent, as demonstrated in their 32-13 loss to New England, where receivers only managed two catches among the team’s 21 receptions. Notably, Jerry Jeudy has recorded a league-high eight dropped passes.
In contrast, Joe Flacco, who was traded to Cincinnati on October 7, has excelled, posting a 100.1 passer rating and throwing seven touchdowns without interceptions in his first three games with the Bengals. His success highlights the stark difference in offensive capabilities, particularly with weapons like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins at his disposal.
The Browns’ offensive line and receiving corps face scrutiny ahead of the upcoming trade deadline on Tuesday. With potential changes on the horizon, including the possibility of moving veterans like Jeudy, the Browns must decide quickly how to salvage their season.
As the team prepares for their critical matchup against the Jets, the pressure is mounting. Can the Browns find the spark they need, or will they continue to struggle through a disappointing season? Fans and analysts alike are eager to see what adjustments will be made when Cleveland takes the field next.
Stay tuned for updates as the Browns navigate these pivotal decisions during their bye week.
