Kevin Stefanski Sticks with Dillon Gabriel After Jets Loss

The Cleveland Browns faced a disappointing defeat against the New York Jets on November 9, 2025, losing 27-20 at MetLife Stadium. Despite the return of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders to the active roster, head coach Kevin Stefanski has chosen to maintain confidence in Dillon Gabriel as the starting quarterback.

Gabriel’s performance against the Jets included 167 passing yards and two touchdowns, but it ultimately fell short of securing a win. This loss marked Gabriel’s fourth defeat in five starts since taking over from veteran Joe Flacco. With the Browns now struggling at a 2-7 record, many observers are questioning Stefanski’s decision to stick with Gabriel instead of giving Sanders a chance to prove himself.

Stefanski was faced with inquiries about the quarterback situation following the game. In response, he stated, “Yeah, we are gonna stick with Dillon,” indicating his commitment to Gabriel despite the team’s poor performance. The coach’s decision has drawn criticism from analysts and fans alike, particularly as the Browns continue to languish near the bottom of the league standings.

The choice to start Gabriel, who has experience from playing at UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon, was made with an emphasis on his maturity. However, his limitations have become evident. While he has thrown for seven touchdowns and only two interceptions this season, his inability to make longer passes and his propensity to take sacks—averaging two per game—raise concerns. In the game against the Jets, the pass rush managed to sack him six times, a troubling statistic that reflects the struggles of the offensive line.

Many, including sports commentator Skip Bayless, have expressed frustration over the lack of opportunity for Sanders. Bayless tweeted, “How much longer do I have to watch Dillon Gabriel dink and dunk and clunk … and lose, even to the Jets … before Shedeur gets his turn?” The call to give Sanders a chance stems from his impressive college career, which included a completion rate of 70% and a top-ten finish in the Heisman voting.

The Browns’ front office, including general manager Andrew Berry, initially selected Sanders in the draft, a decision that was reportedly influenced by ownership. Despite a promising preseason performance against Carolina, the coaching staff has yet to show confidence in Sanders as a viable starter.

As the Browns look ahead to their next matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, it seems unlikely that Sanders will see the field unless there is a significant change in circumstances. The coaching staff will need to weigh their options carefully as the season progresses, with playoff hopes dwindling.

In an environment where every game matters, the decision to continue with Gabriel raises questions about the team’s strategy moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if a shift in the quarterback position is on the horizon, or if the Browns will remain committed to Gabriel for the remainder of the season.