"It's an occupational hazard": Browns HC Kevin Stefanski defends Dillon Gabriel's missed throws amid team's offensive struggles

Kevin Stefanski brushed off concerns about Dillon Gabriel’s recent accuracy issues on Tuesday. He emphasized that occasional misfires are an unavoidable part of the job.

“Any quarterback, young or old, you’re gonna miss throws,” Stefanski told reporters. “It’s an occupational hazard, likely not going to go 100% completion percentage."

Mary Kay Cabot

@MaryKayCabot

#Browns Kevin Stefanski on some of Dillon Gabriel’s errant throws:

Gabriel, the team’s third-round selection in April’s draft, took over as starter in Week 5. He has endured growing scrutiny as Cleveland’s passing attack has struggled to generate momentum. Stefanski has faced repeated questions about whether he might consider a change under center.

Gabriel played six college seasons, setting the NCAA record for games played before landing with the Browns.

Cleveland offense still seeking rhythm behind Dillon Gabriel

Syndication: The Record - Source: Imagn

The Browns passing game ranks among the league’s least productive, with Dillon Gabriel averaging just 5.0 yards per attempt. It's last among qualified quarterbacks, while completing 58.6% of his passes. His ball placement has been inconsistent, with nearly one in five throws deemed off target by data services.

Gabriel has thrown for 869 yards and seven touchdowns, while taking 17 sacks across five starts,. He has protected the ball effectively, committing only two interceptions. However, Gabriel's inability to sustain drives has contributed to Cleveland converting just 35% of its third downs.

The rookie completed 17 of 32 passes for 167 yards and two scores, along with 54 rushing yards on Sunday versus the New York Jets. The Browns opened strong with a 95-yard touchdown drive but failed to maintain rhythm after the Jets adjusted defensively. Even with New York missing key defenders and playing in wet conditions, Cleveland’s offense faltered in the second half.

Despite the 27-20 defeat, Stefanski reaffirmed that Gabriel would remain the starter in Week 11 at Baltimore.

“Yeah, we’re gonna stick with Dillon,” Stefanski told reporters on Tuesday.

The coach cited Gabriel's composure and learning curve, suggesting that continuity could help the offense stabilize. Shedeur Sanders remains an option on the depth chart.