The Cleveland Browns have made a bold quarterback change. They have benched Joe Flacco and will now start Dillon Gabriel. This move has raised questions across the league about which starting quarterbacks might be on the chopping block next.
Flacco had been serving as a temporary stopgap in Cleveland’s offense. But his demotion was hardly a surprise to those following the team. The Browns’ coaching staff clearly wants to see what Gabriel can do under center. With this switch, other franchises are under the spotlight to see if they will make similar changes.
One club drawing attention is the Carolina Panthers. Their starter, Bryce Young, has had a wobbly start this season. Yet head coach Dave Canales has defended Young publicly. Still, Andy Dalton exists as a veteran alternative, and if the passing game continues to stall, a change might be in order.
In Cincinnati, Jake Browning is under pressure. He had to fill in last season for Joe Burrow and was serviceable then, but current performances have left some fans and analysts uneasy. The Bengals’ backup, Brett Rypien, is a conventional option but Cincinnati might also explore external options if they believe Browning cannot stabilize their offense.
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders also face scrutiny at quarterback. Geno Smith was brought in with hopes of steady leadership, but his risk-taking and turnovers have hurt the team. Behind him lies Kenny Pickett, a younger option who could be tested if Smith fails to find better form.
Even the New Orleans Saints are not immune. Their starter, Spencer Rattler, has thrown more touchdowns than interceptions, but the team still sits at zero wins. Coach Kellen Moore invested in Tyler Shough as a backup, and many believe the Saints could give Shough a chance to see what he offers longer term.
As the NFL season progresses, the Browns’ move sends a clear message: no quarterback is untouchable if results do not follow. Gabriel’s performance in Cleveland will be watched closely and the ripple effect may force other teams to consider bold decisions at the most important position in football.
