The Cleveland Browns concluded the 2025 season with a challenging situation in their quarterback lineup. The team must decide whether to continue with Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders, or pursue a new quarterback in the upcoming draft. This analysis aims to compare the performance of Gabriel and Sanders, both drafted in 2025, through various statistical metrics.
Dillon Gabriel vs. Shedeur Sanders: Rookie Statistics Breakdown
Both Gabriel and Sanders had the opportunity to showcase their abilities as they both started six or more games in their rookie seasons. The evaluation includes ten significant statistical categories, alongside comparative performances from established AFC quarterbacks who also began their careers as rookies.
Key Statistical Categories
- Quickest Time to Throw:
- Dillon Gabriel: 2.73 seconds
- Shedeur Sanders: 3.24 seconds
- AFC Comparison:
- Joe Burrow: 2.65 seconds
- Justin Herbert: 2.69 seconds
- Trevor Lawrence: 2.87 seconds
- Completion Percentage:
- Dillon Gabriel: 59.5%
- Shedeur Sanders: 56.6%
- AFC Comparison:
- Justin Herbert: 66.6%
- Joe Burrow: 65.3%
- Trevor Lawrence: 59.6%
- Completion Percentage Under Pressure:
- Dillon Gabriel: 50.8%
- Shedeur Sanders: 41.7%
- AFC Comparison:
- Justin Herbert: 57.0%
- Lamar Jackson: 54.0%
- Sacks Responsible For:
- Dillon Gabriel: 4 (19 total sacks)
- Shedeur Sanders: 11 (23 total sacks)
- AFC Comparison:
- Lamar Jackson: 8
- Josh Allen: 4
- Big-Time Throws:
- Dillon Gabriel: 3
- Shedeur Sanders: 10
- AFC Comparison:
- Justin Herbert: 31
- Trevor Lawrence: 22
Final Ranking Summary
Following the comparative analysis, Gabriel ranked 14th while Sanders was slightly behind at 16th in the combined performance categories. The AFC quarterbacks included in the comparison also had their rankings:
| Quarterback | Rank |
|---|---|
| Justin Herbert | 21 |
| Joe Burrow | 28 |
| Lamar Jackson | 28 |
| Trevor Lawrence | 35 |
| Josh Allen | 38 |
Conclusion
While both quarterbacks displayed different strengths and weaknesses, Gabriel had slightly better overall performance. However, Sanders excelled in key areas such as big-time throws and deep completions. Moving forward, the Browns must assess their options carefully, given the potential displayed by both players in a competitive rookie season.
