Mike McDaniel Says Dolphins Aim to Keep Rookie QB Dillon Gabriel Uncomfortable on Sunday

The Miami Dolphins and the Cleveland Browns face off at the Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sunday afternoon.

Mike McDaniel Says Dolphins Aim to Keep Rookie QB Dillon Gabriel Uncomfortable on Sunday

Mike McDaniel, Dillon Gabriel (Images via Heavy Sports/ Reuters)

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Rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel will make his third consecutive start for the Cleveland Browns on Sunday when they face the Miami Dolphins. The third-round pick has shown flashes of potential in limited action, but he’s yet to win a game after losing back-to-back against the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The challenge intensifies for Gabriel this week against a disciplined Miami Dolphins defense led by head coach Mike McDaniel. Gabriel has completed 56.5 percent of his passes for 411 yards and two touchdowns through his first two starts, while avoiding turnovers.

However, he has been sacked eight times. This allows the Dolphins to exploit the struggles of Cleveland’s offensive line and the limited support around the young signal-caller. Speaking to reporters on Friday, McDaniel praised Gabriel’s poise and accuracy but emphasized that Miami’s defense plans to make life difficult for the rookie. McDaniel said:

He looks like he should be in there. To look the part of a starting quarterback in the NFL is extremely difficult, even more so for a rookie. He’s shown that he can make accurate throws and distribute the ball on time and in rhythm.

Still, McDaniel made it clear that the Dolphins’ defensive objective is to pressure Gabriel and prevent him from finding a rhythm. He added:

Our job is to make him look like a rookie. That means 11 convicted players playing together and making it hard on him. Don’t get it twisted, just because he’s a rookie doesn’t mean he can’t spin the ball or take advantage of opportunities. But we can’t allow him to get comfortable.

For the Browns, Sunday’s matchup will serve as another important test for Gabriel as he continues to adjust to the speed and complexity of the professional game. The Cleveland Browns are 1-5 to the season after six weeks, inching closer to yet another playoff miss.

Meanwhile, the Dolphins haven’t had it smooth sailing by any means. They are, in fact, in the same boat as the Browns with just a win so far. The New York Jets being even more miserable with no wins is the sole reason that the Browns and Dolphins aren’t dead last in the AFC.

The Dolphins themselves have their own discomfort

With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, the Miami Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads. At 1–5, the team’s disappointing start to the season has prompted growing speculation about possible roster moves. With internal drama added to the equation, the Dolphins need a reshaping of the franchise’s immediate and long-term future.

Mike McDaniel
Mike McDaniel (Image via The Draft Network)

Reports have suggested that Miami could become active in the trade market, not only as a buyer seeking reinforcements, but potentially as a seller looking to reset its roster. Head coach Mike McDaniel addressed the growing rumors on Friday, firmly denying that any trade discussions have taken place.

For the record, all rumors about Miami Dolphins players are baseless currently. Our focus remains on preparing the team for upcoming games rather than chasing speculative moves.

McDaniel also expressed concern for players who must navigate the uncertainty surrounding trade speculation.

Despite the coach’s reassurances, the pressure continues to mount as Miami prepares for a pivotal matchup against the Cleveland Browns. A loss could intensify internal discussions about potential trades, with several key names reportedly on the radar should the front office opt to retool.

Among the players most frequently mentioned are linebacker Bradley Chubb, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, running back De’Von Achane, and rookies Paris Paul and Chop Robinson. Nonetheless, their recent performances, these players are all valuable assets who could attract significant interest around the league.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa also remains under scrutiny following an underwhelming start to the season. However, team sources indicate that Miami remains committed to Tagovailoa as its long-term starter, prioritizing improvements to the supporting cast rather than exploring a move under center.

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