Dillon Gabriel returns to practice as Browns also move Kalia Davis toward comeback

The Cleveland Browns took multiple steps to reshape their roster on Tuesday, starting with opening quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s return-to-practice window. The second-year passer, who landed on injured reserve with a back issue shortly after final cuts, is now eligible to participate in practice for up to 21 days while the team evaluates whether to bring him back to the 53-man roster.

Gabriel’s status is notable in a quarterback room that has undergone several changes over the past year. He was initially given the first opportunity to follow Joe Flacco as the Browns’ starter last season, but his struggles led to a switch to Shedeur Sanders. That arrangement also shifted when Deshaun Watson reclaimed the job, and his improved play has calmed any immediate questions about the top of the depth chart.

Kalia Davis return would not hit activation limit

Along with Gabriel, the Browns designated defensive tackle Kalia Davis for return from injured reserve. Because Davis was placed on IR after the league’s August 30 roster deadline, his eventual activation will not count against Cleveland’s maximum of eight in-season returns. He will have to be restored to the active roster before that exemption applies in practice.

The Browns have already burned two of their regular-season return designations, using them on Gabriel and tight end Joe Royer back in August. Royer has yet to resume practicing, leaving the team some flexibility as it weighs future moves. A Davis activation would leave five potential returns available through Week 18; clubs only gain additional activations if they reach the playoffs.

Browns add James Proche to practice squad

Cleveland also made a series of practice-squad adjustments. The team signed wide receiver James Proche, a move that followed what ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler described as a workout in Cleveland. Proche has previous experience in Todd Monken’s system from their time together in Baltimore, giving the Browns another depth option familiar with the offensive terminology.

Defensive tackle Chris Williams also joined the 16-man unit, while running back Eric Gray, offensive lineman Xavier Truss and punter Wes Pahl were released from the practice squad. The flurry of moves underscores the Browns’ effort to balance injury-return planning with maintaining depth at key positions as the regular season unfolds.