Cleveland Browns Pull Off Stunning Last-Second Win, Shaking Up the AFC Playoff Race

CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback carousel is spinning once again as rookie Dillon Gabriel prepares to make his first NFL start against the Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Sunday. The surprise promotion comes while franchise passer Deshaun Watson continues his long-road recovery from a ruptured Achilles and first-round prospect Shedeur Sanders waits in the wings for a possible 2025 debut. Rookie debut in London Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Gabriel will take the first snap in Week 5, betting on the former Oklahoma star’s mobility to stabilize an offense that averaged just 18.7 points through four weeks. Gabriel’s quick release and off-script creativity were evident in preseason action, but Sunday will be his first taste of live bullets that count in the standings. The Browns have emphasized simplified reads, run-pass options, and tempo to keep Minnesota’s aggressive front off balance. Why Joe Flacco slid to QB3 Veteran Joe Flacco—signed as an insurance policy last winter—was bypassed in favor of Gabriel after a sluggish September that included two multi-turnover relief appearances. Insiders say the coaching staff believes Flacco’s limited mobility is a poor matchup against the Vikings’ exotic pressure looks. Sources also indicate Cleveland values the extra live reps for its rookies, setting the table for a long-term battle between Gabriel and Sanders when Watson returns. Shedeur Sanders on deck Sanders, the No. 12 overall pick, showed flashes in training camp but was listed as QB2 this week—a sign the staff wants him one play away yet sheltered from the spotlight for now. League executives believe the former Colorado standout could see action later this season if Gabriel falters or Watson suffers a setback. Deshaun Watson’s timeline Watson has begun straight-line jogging and light throwing, but medical staff projects a late-November target for practice reps and an early-December return to game action, barring setbacks. The Browns insist they are committed to Watson’s full recovery rather than rushing him for a mid-season cameo. Matchup to watch: Browns O-line vs. Vikings pass rush All eyes are on All-Pro left tackle Jedrick Wills, who draws Danielle Hunter (6.0 sacks) off the edge. Protecting Gabriel’s blind side is paramount; Stefanski may deploy extra tight-end chips and quick screens to neutralize the rush. If the line can give Gabriel a clean pocket, Cleveland’s play-action game—featuring running backs Nick Chubb and Jerome Ford—could exploit a Minnesota secondary that surrendered 292 passing yards per game. Key storylines driving fan interest • Dillon Gabriel’s first NFL start in an international spotlight • Deshaun Watson Achilles rehab and projected return date • Shedeur Sanders’ development and potential debut later in 2025 • Joe Flacco’s demotion and veteran leadership role • Browns vs. Vikings playoff-implication matchup in Week 5 Fantasy football impact Gabriel offers immediate two-QB league appeal thanks to rushing upside. Wideout Amari Cooper remains a WR2 with target volume intact, while TE David Njoku’s red-zone rapport with Gabriel in camp makes him a viable streamer. Managers should stash Sanders in dynasty formats as a high-ceiling late-year pivot. What’s next After London, the Browns enter their Week 6 bye before hosting the AFC-North-leading Cincinnati Bengals. A strong showing by Gabriel could cement him as the interim starter, but a sluggish outing may accelerate Sanders’ timeline. Either way, Cleveland’s quarterback saga—and its playoff hopes—are just heating up.