Gabriel Makes First NFL Start at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

In Week 5 of the 2025 NFL season, Dillon Gabriel made his first career start for the Cleveland Browns in London against the Minnesota Vikings. The rookie quarterback, drafted in the third round out of Oregon, was called up after veteran Joe Flacco struggled with turnovers in the first four games. Gabriel’s debut came with high expectations, and while the Browns fell short 21 to 17, his performance offered a glimpse of hope for Cleveland fans.

Gabriel’s Stats and Key Plays

Gabriel finished the game 19 of 33 for 190 yards and two touchdowns, posting a passer rating of 94.3. He also added five rushing yards on two carries and was sacked twice. His first touchdown came on a short strike to rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr., and his second was a well-placed pass to David Njoku in the third quarter that briefly gave the Browns a 17 to 14 lead.

Gabriel’s ability to manage the offense, avoid turnovers, and execute under pressure stood out. He showed poise in the pocket and made smart decisions, especially in the red zone.

Browns Offense Finds Rhythm but Misses Finishing Touch

The Browns offense looked more dynamic with Gabriel under center. Head coach Kevin Stefanski tailored the game plan to Gabriel’s strengths, using quick throws, play action, and pocket movement. The running game also flourished, with rookie Quinshon Judkins rushing for 110 yards on 23 carries, helping Cleveland control the clock.

However, the offense stalled in the fourth quarter. The Browns failed to convert key third downs, and Minnesota capitalized with a late 80-yard drive led by Carson Wentz, ending in a touchdown to Jordan Addison with just 25 seconds left.

Gabriel’s Strengths and Areas for Growth

Gabriel’s debut highlighted several strengths:

• Quick decision making and ball security
• Accurate short and intermediate throws
• Strong chemistry with tight ends
• Composure in high-pressure moments

Areas for improvement include:

• Downfield aggression: Gabriel averaged just 5.5 air yards per attempt and was 3 of 10 on throws beyond 10 yards
• Receiver involvement: Browns wideouts struggled, with multiple drops and missed routes
• Fourth quarter execution: The offense failed to close out the game despite having the lead

Browns Receiving Corps Under Scrutiny

Cleveland’s wide receivers were largely ineffective. Jerry Jeudy and Isaiah Bond combined for just 44 yards on 4 catches, with multiple missed opportunities. Analysts and fans have pointed out that both Gabriel and Flacco have suffered from a lack of support from their receiving corps. The Browns may need to rely more on tight ends and the run game until their wideouts find consistency.

What This Means for Gabriel and the Browns

Despite the loss, Gabriel’s performance was a step forward for the Browns. He showed maturity, leadership, and the ability to execute a game plan. With Cleveland now at 1 and 4, the coaching staff faces a decision—stick with the rookie or rotate back to Flacco or Shedeur Sanders.

Gabriel’s debut suggests he deserves another start, especially with a divisional matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers looming next Sunday.

Final Thoughts

Dillon Gabriel’s first NFL start was not perfect, but it was promising. He brought energy, accuracy, and composure to a struggling Browns offense. If Cleveland can fix its receiving issues and build around Gabriel’s strengths, they may have found a quarterback worth developing.it for your newsletter.