Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who was selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, is facing an early load in his professional career.
Just weeks into the team’s 2025 training camp, which started on July 23 at the CrossCountry Mortgage Campus in Berea, Ohio, the 24-year-old suffered a hamstring injury, which was reported on August 2, 2025.
For a rookie looking to make a name for himself, missing out on one of the important chances to show his talents in a game setting is a real setback.
5’11” Tall Gabriel Known for his Dynamic Playstyle, is No Ordinary Rookie
The quarterback from Hawaii had a successful college career at UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon.
He is among the NCAA’s all-time leaders in passing yards and total offensive yards. Gabriel also holds the FBS record for the most career touchdowns.
The Browns drafted him 94th overall, bringing excitement to their quarterback group, which aimed to mix younger and veteran players.
His selection received a warm welcome as he shared in a post-draft press conference,
“This is definitely a place where I thrive. Being back in the building, after months of being teamless during the draft process, feels right. This is why you play the game of football.”
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But Gabriel’s transition to the NFL has been challenging. Training under head coach Kevin Stefanski is tough because the players face full-padded practices and two-a-day workouts that test their physical and mental limits.
On the other hand, Gabriel’s hamstring injury has restricted his participation. This means he did not practice at all by August 6 and only had limited reps earlier in the week. This has seriously affected his ability to participate in important 11-on-11 drills, where quarterbacks practice their timing and decision-making.
As a result, he is behind in the quarterback competition, which includes veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett and rookie Shedeur Sanders.
Browns Have not Disclosed How Serious Gabriel’s Injury is or When He Might Return
Fans and coaches are anxious because missing the preseason opener could slow his development, especially since he is competing for a spot in a crowded quarterback room.
Besides the physical recovery, he also has to learn a new system, which additionally adds to the challenge. Browns fans hoped to see Gabriel’s college skills succeed in the NFL, but now they must wait for his next chance to prove himself.
Still, Gabriel is showing strong determination, and his stable college background suggests he will bounce back quickly. As soon as he recovers, his main goal is to regain full strength for the upcoming preseason.
Cleveland’s coaching staff and fans alike are positive that this “ball of fire” quarterback will return even stronger, ready to light up the field and prove why he was a valuable draft pick.
