Kenny Pickett Faces Setback Before Browns' Starter Announcement

Cleveland Browns Face Tough QB Decisions Ahead of Roster Cuts

The Cleveland Browns are set to make a critical decision this week regarding their starting quarterback. As the team prepares for the 2024 season, they must determine which passers will remain on the roster and who might be moved elsewhere. This process has become increasingly complex due to injuries, performance, and strategic considerations.

At the moment, the Browns have four quarterbacks on their roster: Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. The team initially expressed openness to keeping all four players, but recent developments suggest that the final decision may not be as straightforward. Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged the difficulty of the situation during a recent press conference, stating that while he would prefer to keep everyone, it’s not a realistic expectation.

Kenny Pickett Likely to Be Traded or Waived

Among the four quarterbacks, Kenny Pickett appears to be the most likely candidate for a trade or waiver. He was acquired in a March trade and has been expected to compete for a spot on the active roster. However, his progress has been hindered by a hamstring injury that has limited his participation in practice since late July. Pickett has missed both preseason games so far and has not been able to take part in team drills during training camp.

Despite these setbacks, Pickett remains optimistic about his recovery. “I try to give myself 24 hours to be as angry as I could be and then just turn the page,” he said last week. “Every day doing as much as I can.” He emphasized that his goal is to return to full health and compete, but he is also aware of the need to be cautious.

Coach Stefanski has expressed hope that Pickett will be ready to play this week, but the team is taking a day-by-day approach to his recovery. If Pickett is not fully healthy for the preseason finale, he could find himself on the outside looking in.

Other Quarterbacks in the Mix

In addition to Pickett, the Browns currently have six quarterbacks on their roster. Tyler Huntley, a veteran signed earlier this month, is expected to provide depth during the preseason. However, he is unlikely to stick around long-term given the presence of other younger, more promising options.

Deshaun Watson remains on the roster as an expensive but inactive presence in the quarterback room. His contract continues to be a financial burden for the team, though he has not been involved in any meaningful way this season.

A Deliberate Approach to the Starting QB Decision

The Browns have taken a deliberate approach when it comes to revealing details about their quarterback competition. Coach Stefanski has maintained that focus, emphasizing the importance of player development and preparation. However, he confirmed that the starting quarterback will be named this week.

“We still anticipate all of our players, whether you’re a starter or not, to prepare like you’re the starter,” Stefanski said. “And knowing all of our players in that room, that’s exactly what they’ll do.”

This statement highlights the team’s philosophy of treating every player as if they could be the one to lead the offense. It also underscores the intense competition among the quarterbacks, with each player vying for a chance to prove themselves.

What’s Next for the Browns?

With the regular season set to begin on September 7 against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Browns must finalize their roster and decide on their starting quarterback. The decision will have significant implications for the team’s success this year.

As the clock ticks down, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which quarterback emerges as the clear choice. For now, the Browns remain focused on preparing their players and ensuring that whoever steps onto the field is ready to perform at the highest level.