The Tampa Bay Buccaneers might be looking to add some depth at quarterback as the 2026 season approaches, and a surprising name has emerged as a potential trade target: Dillon Gabriel. According to a recent Bleacher Report analysis, the young quarterback could be on the move after the Cleveland Browns loaded up on signal-callers in the draft, creating a crowded depth chart that might make him available for a late-round pick.

Gabriel, who saw action in six starts during his rookie campaign, showed flashes of promise despite some uneven play. He completed 59.5 percent of his passes for 937 yards, tossing seven touchdowns against just two interceptions, good for an 80.8 passer rating. While his yards-per-attempt average of 5.1 suggests room for growth, he limited costly mistakes and demonstrated enough poise to function as a spot starter. Digging into the numbers, Gabriel posted 10 turnover-worthy plays on 217 dropbacks with a 69.2 adjusted completion rate—a blend of calculated risk and sound decision-making that teams covet in a developmental backup.

With Baker Mayfield firmly entrenched as the starter in Tampa Bay but his long-term future still uncertain, and Jake Browning currently on a short-term deal, the Bucs have a clear need for a younger option to groom behind the scenes. Gabriel wouldn't be expected to challenge for the starting job, but he could provide reliable depth and a fresh arm to develop as the position group evolves. For a team looking to build for the future while staying competitive now, this could be a savvy move to keep the quarterback room solid for years to come.