Dillon Gabriel Injury Update: Browns Rookie Ruled Out as Shedeur Sanders Steps In

Dillon Gabriel’s injury update has become the biggest storyline of the Cleveland Browns’ Week 11 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The rookie quarterback was ruled out in the second half after being evaluated for a concussion. The team confirmed he will not return.

The Browns led 16-10 at halftime, but lost their starter just minutes later. His exit opened the door for fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders to take his first NFL snaps. The moment carried weight for Cleveland’s offense and the broader storyline of two rookie quarterbacks sharing the spotlight.

Latest on Dillon Gabriel After Concussion Evaluation

The Browns announced that Dillon Gabriel was placed into the NFL’s concussion protocol during the third quarter. According to team officials, the quarterback reported symptoms that required immediate medical attention. He did not return to the field after the evaluation. His status for Week 12 will depend on how he progresses through the league’s multi-step protocol, which typically includes rest, neurological testing, and on-field readiness assessments.

Gabriel completed 7 of 10 passes for 68 yards before exiting. His throws looked sharp early, and he helped Cleveland build momentum against one of the toughest defenses in the AFC. But at some point during the second quarter, he appeared shaken up after contact from Baltimore’s pass rush. As reported by USA TODAY and other major outlets, players showing potential signs of concussion must be pulled immediately for examination to prevent further risk.

When Gabriel did not reappear after halftime warmups, the Browns signaled that his return was unlikely. Minutes later, the team officially ruled him out. The decision aligns with ongoing league efforts to protect player safety and minimize long-term neurological impacts.

Shedeur Sanders entered in relief and completed his first two passes for 12 yards. He was later sacked for a 13-yard loss, ending his first possession quickly. Despite the rough sequence, his debut marks a significant milestone. Sanders, a fifth-round pick out of Colorado, had been Cleveland’s third option entering the season.

The Browns now shift their focus to maintaining rhythm on offense without their original starter. Sanders will finish the game, and his performance could affect next week’s depth chart depending on Gabriel’s recovery.

How This Injury Shapes Cleveland’s Next Steps

Dillon Gabriel’s injury complicates Cleveland’s momentum in a tightly contested AFC race. The Browns have relied on steady quarterback play to stay competitive, and losing a young starter mid-game creates immediate challenges. Sanders’ debut provides an unexpected opportunity to evaluate how he handles live NFL action.

The coaching staff will likely simplify the offensive approach to help Sanders settle into the moment. Meanwhile, Gabriel’s recovery timeline becomes the primary storyline heading into Week 12. Concussions vary widely in severity, meaning it could take days or weeks before clarity emerges.

The Browns will continue monitoring Gabriel. For now, his concussion places Shedeur Sanders at the center of the offense, shaping both the team’s immediate outlook and the future quarterback conversation.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Dillon Gabriel injury update?

Gabriel was ruled out of the Browns’ Week 11 game after entering the concussion protocol. His Week 12 status remains uncertain.

Q2: Why did Shedeur Sanders make his NFL debut?

Sanders entered the game after Gabriel was removed for a concussion evaluation. He became the next available quarterback on the depth chart.

Q3: How did Shedeur Sanders perform in his first NFL drive?

Sanders completed two passes for 12 yards and took a 13-yard sack on a third down, resulting in a quick punt.

Q4: How serious is Gabriel’s concussion?

The severity is not yet known. Recovery depends on how quickly he clears each phase of the league’s concussion protocol.

Q5: Could Sanders start if Gabriel remains out?

Yes. If Gabriel does not clear protocol by next week, Sanders becomes the likely starter.