Kevin Stefanski on Ravens Loss, Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders, and More

Injury Updates and Team Performance

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the media following a 23-16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. He provided updates on several key injuries and discussed the team's performance throughout the game.

Stefanski began by outlining the current injury situation. Cam Robinson, the starting left tackle, has a right knee injury and will undergo an MRI. Dillon Gabriel, the quarterback, is in the concussion protocol. Dom Jones and Jack Conklin also sustained left and right knee injuries, respectively. The coach emphasized that more information would be available after the MRI results come in.

Despite the setbacks, Stefanski praised the team’s effort. “The guys were fighting till the end,” he said. “We got to find a way to close that one out. It’s disappointing, frustrating with where we were there at the end of the game.” He acknowledged the challenges the team faced, particularly with injuries at tackle, but remained optimistic about their performance.

Dillon Gabriel’s Concussion

When asked about the circumstances surrounding Dillon Gabriel’s concussion check, Stefanski stated, “He got checked at halftime. I don’t know all the details exactly.” He also confirmed that if Gabriel clears the concussion protocol, he would return as the starter. However, the process involves multiple steps and evaluations.

Shedeur Sanders’ Performance

Stefanski was asked about Shedeur Sanders' performance in his first NFL start. He acknowledged that while there were areas for improvement, the team trusts both of their quarterbacks. “He’s going to battle like he does,” Stefanski said. “There’s things that we can clean up, but those are things we’ll look at tomorrow.”

Sanders, who took over for Gabriel, had limited reps with the starting offense. Stefanski noted that this was his first legitimate snaps with the starters. “We do so much work with the quarterback position and the entire team,” he explained. “Those are tough reps for when you have a young starter.”

Defensive Efforts and Play Calling

On the defensive side, Stefanski praised Myles Garrett’s performance. “I thought there was some outstanding moments out there from our defense,” he said. Garrett provided consistent pressure on the quarterback, and the defense held the Ravens to field goals in the red zone.

Regarding the play calling, Stefanski confirmed that the entire playbook was available to Sanders in the second half. “Yes, it was open,” he said. However, he admitted that the team could have done better in certain situations. “I always think we can do better. Always.”

Special Teams and Game Management

Stefanski also commented on the special teams’ performance, noting that there were “some really good moments” but also areas for improvement. “There’s a couple coverage reps that I know we can better,” he said. He emphasized the team’s pride and desire to improve.

Future Plans and Backup Quarterbacks

When asked about the potential for Shedeur Sanders to start if Dillon Gabriel doesn’t pass the protocol, Stefanski confirmed, “Yes.” He added that the team would evaluate the situation throughout the week and make decisions accordingly.

Stefanski also addressed concerns about the lack of first-team reps for Sanders during practice. “You’re always trying to get your starter ready to play,” he said. “When your starter is a rookie, those are very valuable reps. When your backup is a rookie also, you do everything in your power to get our quarterbacks as many reps as possible.”

Final Thoughts

Stefanski concluded by emphasizing the team’s commitment to improvement. “We trust our guys,” he said. “We have a ton of faith in our players and that includes our starters, our backups, our young guys, our vets.” He reiterated that the team will continue to work hard and refine their approach moving forward.