Cleveland Browns Make the Switch: Mary Kay Cabot Reveals It’s Shedeur Sanders’ Time as Dillon Gabriel Era Ends

The quarterback carousel in Cleveland has spun for years, but a new chapter is unfolding—one that could finally bring stability to the franchise. In a bombshell report on 92.3 The Fan’s morning show, Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot declared what many fans have been waiting to hear: the Browns are done with Dillon Gabriel. It’s Shedeur Sanders’ time.

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The Insider Scoop: Mary Kay Cabot Breaks the News

Mary Kay Cabot, respected for her deep connections and candid takes, joined Baskin and Phelps to discuss the Browns’ quarterback situation. Her message was clear and decisive: barring injury, Dillon Gabriel will not see the field again this season. Shedeur Sanders is the starter, and the organization is committed to evaluating him for the future.

Cabot explained, “Dillon Gabriel probably will not see the field for the rest of the year. He’ll be back with the team next year, but it’s going to be hard-pressed for him to get in as the quarterback unless something happens.”

Her words sent shockwaves through the Cleveland fanbase and NFL media. After months of speculation, debate, and inconsistent play at quarterback, the Browns have made their decision—and it’s a vote of confidence in Sanders.

How Did We Get Here? The Browns’ Quarterback Journey

The Browns’ quarterback drama began long before this season. With veterans like Joe Flacco and Deshaun Watson in and out of the lineup, the team struggled to find consistency. Gabriel, a third-round pick, was expected to be the answer. He started six and a half games, offering a sample size but failing to convince the coaching staff and front office.

Enter Shedeur Sanders. Drafted in the fifth round, Sanders waited patiently for his chance. When it finally came, he made the most of it: two starts, a 1-1 record, two touchdown passes, and over 409 yards passing. The numbers don’t tell the whole story, but they hint at the promise Sanders brings—a strong arm, elite accuracy, and the “it factor” Cabot says the Browns see in him.

The Turning Point: Why Cleveland Chose Sanders

Cabot’s report reflects a major shift in Cleveland’s thinking. Earlier in the season, the plan was for Kenny Pickett to lead the team, with Gabriel as backup and Sanders getting late-season reps. But Gabriel’s performance didn’t meet expectations, and the Browns found themselves searching for answers.

So why did it take so long? Why did the Browns spend half the season evaluating Gabriel when Sanders was waiting in the wings? According to Cabot, the organization needed to see what they had in Gabriel before making a change. But now, with Sanders showing flashes of brilliance, the decision is clear.

“Cleveland sees something in Shedeur,” Cabot said. “That’s why they can’t go away from him.”

The Stats: Sanders vs. Gabriel

Sanders’ brief tenure as starter has already outshined Gabriel’s longer audition. In two games, Sanders has demonstrated poise under pressure, a quick release, and the ability to evade the rush. His accuracy and touch on the ball have impressed coaches and insiders alike.

Meanwhile, Gabriel’s struggles were evident. Despite multiple opportunities, he failed to move the ball consistently or generate wins. The Browns’ offense sputtered, and the team wasted valuable time trying to make the experiment work.

For fans, the frustration was palpable. Many wondered why Sanders wasn’t given the reins earlier, especially as losses mounted and the playoff window began to close.

The Locker Room Dynamic: Sanders Steps Up

Sanders’ emergence has also changed the locker room dynamic. After a sideline confrontation with star receiver Jerry Jeudy, Sanders handled the adversity with maturity. He refused to point fingers, instead focusing on building chemistry and growing as a leader.

Cabot noted, “He does sort of have that it factor. He’s got a nice strong arm. He’s got the ability to evade the rush. He’s showing some things. He’s got elite accuracy, a really nice touch on the ball.”

The Browns’ coaching staff is taking a “one week at a time” approach, keeping Sanders hungry and focused. But the message is clear: Sanders is the starter, and the team is rallying around him.

What’s Next for Dillon Gabriel?

For Dillon Gabriel, the future is uncertain. Cabot believes he’ll be back with the team next year, but his opportunities will be limited. Unless Sanders is injured or falters dramatically, Gabriel will remain on the sidelines.

The Browns’ investment in Gabriel—a third-round pick—has not paid the dividends the organization hoped for. As insiders and media personnel in Cleveland give up on Gabriel, the focus shifts entirely to Sanders and his potential as a franchise quarterback.

Evaluating Sanders: Is He the Answer?

Cabot’s analysis is cautiously optimistic. While Sanders has shown promise, the offense around him remains a challenge. The Browns’ receiving corps, particularly Jeudy, has struggled, and the offensive line has been inconsistent. Even an established veteran would have trouble thriving in these conditions.

Still, Sanders’ ability to rise above the chaos and produce results is encouraging. Cabot writes, “I think he’s showing some signs that perhaps maybe he actually can be a winning quarterback in the NFL.”

The Browns need to know if Sanders is their future, or if they should draft another quarterback in April. The rest of the season will be a critical audition for Sanders, as the organization evaluates his fit, leadership, and potential.

The Browns’ Organizational Shift: Lessons Learned

The decision to move on from Gabriel and commit to Sanders represents a broader shift in Cleveland’s philosophy. For years, the Browns have struggled to identify and develop a franchise quarterback. The constant turnover and lack of continuity have plagued the team, undermining playoff hopes and fan confidence.

Now, with Sanders at the helm, the Browns are embracing a new approach—one that values talent, leadership, and resilience. The organization is finally willing to take a chance on youth, trusting Sanders to grow into the role and lead the team forward.

Fan Reaction: Relief, Excitement, and Cautious Optimism

For Browns fans, Cabot’s report is a breath of fresh air. The uncertainty and frustration of the quarterback drama have weighed heavily on the fanbase. Now, with Sanders in control, there’s hope for stability and progress.

Social media erupted with reactions to Cabot’s comments. Many fans expressed relief that the team is moving on from Gabriel, while others are excited to see what Sanders can do with a full season under his belt. The consensus: it’s time for a new era in Cleveland.

The Road Ahead: Sanders’ Audition Continues

As the season continues, all eyes will be on Sanders. The Browns have five games left, and each one is an opportunity for Sanders to prove himself. The coaching staff will monitor his development, looking for signs of growth, leadership, and consistency.

Cabot’s report suggests the Browns are committed to giving Sanders every chance to succeed. The “one week at a time” approach keeps him motivated, while also allowing the team to make adjustments as needed.

Conclusion: A New Era Dawns in Cleveland

Mary Kay Cabot’s revelation marks a turning point for the Cleveland Browns. After years of quarterback turmoil, the team is finally ready to embrace Shedeur Sanders as its leader. Dillon Gabriel’s era is over, and the focus is squarely on the future.

Sanders’ performance in the coming weeks will determine whether the Browns have found their franchise quarterback or need to look elsewhere in the draft. For now, optimism reigns in Cleveland, as fans and insiders rally around Sanders and the promise he brings.

The Browns’ journey has been long and difficult, but with Sanders at the helm, there’s hope for a brighter future. The organization has learned valuable lessons about patience, evaluation, and the importance of seizing opportunities. As the new era begins, Cleveland is ready to turn the page and build something special.