Stephen A. Smith Lashes out at Dillon Gabriel Over His Unnecessary Comments About the Media: “Stupid, Idiotic, Immature”

The Cleveland Browns drafted two quarterbacks in the 2025 draft, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders from the Oregon Ducks and Colorado Buffaloes, respectively.

Stephen A. Smith Lashes out at Dillon Gabriel Over His Unnecessary Comments About the Media: “Stupid, Idiotic, Immature”

Dillon Gabriel, Stephen A. Smith (Images via Getty)

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The NFL preseason is often a time for players to establish themselves, but occasionally, words off the field generate just as much discussion as plays on it. Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel found himself at the center of headlines this week after a sideline interview during Saturday’s preseason win over the Philadelphia Eagles drew unexpected criticism.

In the moment, Gabriel spoke candidly about his approach to competition and the role of the media.

It’s part of it. There’s entertainers, and there’s competitors. I totally understand that. My job is to compete. That’s what I’m focused on doing. We’re doing this big game, but it’s something that I’ll get used to it. Just want to be the best teammate I can and create an environment where we can all do our best work.

Dillon Gabriel said

The comments quickly circulated on social media, with some interpreting them as a subtle jab at fellow rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Later, Gabriel clarified that the remarks had nothing to do with Sanders. He added that there’s no reason to attack his fellow teammate. Three months ago, he had to field a similar issue and ended up lashing out at a reporter for trying to put a wedge between him and Sanders.

Despite the clarification, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith did not hold back in his critique. On First Take, Smith described the comments as “stupid, idiotic, immature” before explaining that Gabriel was likely not speaking about Sanders but the media.

Smith admitted that the rookie had unnecessarily invited heightened scrutiny by challenging the media. The analyst added that such remarks could follow Gabriel into the season, especially if his on-field performance falters.

When you go out there and compete like trash, because you will have days when you look like that, we’re going to remember those comments… Whether we like it or not, some of us will be kind like myself because we don’t want to do that to you. Others will be merciless. But in the end no one will be wrong, because who instigated that fury against you? It would be you.

Joe Flacco named Browns starter ahead of Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel

The Cleveland Browns announced on Monday that 40-year-old veteran Joe Flacco will be the team’s starting quarterback for Week 1. The decision comes after one of the most competitive quarterback battles of the NFL preseason from a six-member quarterback room.

Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco (Images via Getty)

Flacco, who led the Baltimore Ravens for 11 seasons and won a Super Bowl in 2012, beat out a crowded field that included Kenny Pickett, rookies Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders, and Tyler Huntley.

Injuries played a significant role in shaping the competition. Pickett, initially seen as Flacco’s main challenger, missed time with a hamstring injury, while Sanders was sidelined with an oblique issue. Gabriel also dealt with a hamstring injury but managed to start Saturday’s preseason win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

Despite the young competition, Flacco’s experience and familiarity with Cleveland’s system provided a clear advantage. He previously signed with the Browns in late 2023, stepping in for an injured Deshaun Watson and guiding the team to the playoffs, even earning Comeback Player of the Year honors.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Flacco will debut this preseason against the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday, using the matchup as a dress rehearsal for the regular season. With Flacco atop the depth chart, the remaining quarterbacks will continue to compete for backup roles.

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