Context:

Dillon Gabriel, drafted by the Cleveland Browns, and Shedeur Sanders, later picked by the same team, find themselves in a competitive quarterback room. Despite media attention focusing on Sanders, Gabriel emphasizes team unity and a healthy, competitive environment. He asserts that comparing him to Sanders only serves to divide the team, underscoring the importance of learning from seasoned players like Joe Flacco and Deshaun Watson. Gabriel is determined to prepare as if he is the starter, leveraging his experience to secure a leading role. The Browns' quarterback situation is set to be a prominent storyline this preseason, with Flacco currently favored due to his past success with head coach Kevin Stefanski's offense.

Dive Deeper:

• Dillon Gabriel, a Heisman Trophy finalist, was unexpectedly drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round, while Shedeur Sanders was picked two rounds later, creating a notably competitive quarterback environment with Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett also present.

• Despite being in Sanders' shadow in terms of media coverage, Gabriel expressed enthusiasm about having Sanders as a teammate, highlighting the opportunity for mutual learning in a talent-rich quarterbacks room.

• Gabriel stressed the importance of team cohesion, noting that comparisons between him and Sanders could lead to division, and emphasized the value of a supportive environment where all players can excel together.

• He is focused on preparing as a starter, drawing on his considerable experience and aiming to secure the leading position by demonstrating his readiness and capability during training.

• Joe Flacco, who has a history of success with the Browns' head coach and has been pivotal in past playoff runs, is currently seen as the frontrunner for the starting quarterback role, but the competition remains open.

• The narrative surrounding Gabriel and Sanders is expected to be a major focus in the NFL preseason, given their linked draft history and the intense competition for the starting quarterback position.

• Gabriel's approach emphasizes the importance of a healthy, competitive atmosphere where each player's potential is maximized, fostering a team-oriented mindset that could benefit the Browns' overall performance.