Browns rumor could lead to trade with Packers, Lions or Rams

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation is in an uncertain place, as the team hasn't added to the position group this offseason, and the 2026 draft class isn't filled with many talented signal-callers ready to start on Day 1.

As a result, it sounds like the Browns are considering giving Shedeur Sanders the chance to be the starter this upcoming season, per Jason La Canfora of SportsBoom.

"The Browns crowded quarterback situation did not get more clouded through the first week of free agency, with them avoiding any veteran upgrades, and league sources continue to maintain that new head coach Todd Monken is open to the idea of Shedeur Sanders being his starter in 2026," La Canfora said.

If Cleveland turns to Sanders in 2026, that would leave Dillon Gabriel and Deshaun Watson as the backups.

Getting some value back for either Gabriuel or Watson in a trade would be a logical move by the Browns. Due to his horrendous contract, no team will likely want to trade for Watson, but Gabruel could net some interest on the market.

In six starts in 2025, Gabriel showed some promise and could emerge as a trade target for franchises seeking a backup signal-caller. The Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and Los Angeles Rams are among the teams that could have interest in Gabriel.

Green Bay lost Malik Willis to the Miami Dolphins in free agency, and could replace him with Gabriel to serve as the No. 2 quarterback behind Jordan Love.

Teddy Bridgewater is slated to be Detroit's backup quarterback, but the Lions may also look to bring in Gabriel to compete with the veteran and add some youth to the room.

If Jimmy Garoppolo doesn't return to Los Angeles, the Rams could also be a possible spot for Gabriel. The Oregon product could learn a lot from MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Gabriel could seek a change of scenery if he's unable to land the Browns' starting job in 2026, and there should be a few teams that are willing to make a deal with Cleveland for the 25-year-old.

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