Clemson star predicted to replace Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel as Browns' future at QB

When the Cleveland Browns begin training camp later this month, we're going to have a much better idea of where Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders stand.

Both rookies have had their moments during the offseason, according to reports, but it's hard to gauge much from offseason practice with no pads.

That will change soon, though, and Gabriel and Sanders will either help or hurt their stocks as they compete for the starting quarterback and backup spots with veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett.

If we go through the 2025 campaign and the Browns aren't happy with the rookies, the team could turn to the 2026 NFL draft for its next attempt at finding a true franchise quarterback.

According to John Blair of NFL Mocks, that's exactly what will happen. He has the Browns taking Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik with the No. 3 overall pick in the draft next year.

"The Browns took shots at the quarterback position in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting both Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, but the need under center remains," Blair wrote.

"Clemson’s Cade Klubnik could be a strong fit in Kevin Stefanski’s offense," Blair added. "He processes reads quickly and brings a similar athletic skill set to Baker Mayfield, who has been the most effective quarterback Stefanski has coached in Cleveland."

Klubnik had his best collegiate season in 2024, completing 63.4% of his passes for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns to six picks in a season in which Clemson won the ACC Championship Game before being bounced in the first round of the College Football Playoff by Texas.

Klubnik's stock is sky-high after his impressive showing, and another one like it could lead to him being the first quarterback drafted in 2026.

The Browns are expected to have a putrid season in 2025, so they should be in range to take the Clemson signal-caller if he can cement himself as the top quarterback prospect.