Shedeur Sanders begins his unique 'Squid Game' with the Cleveland Browns and Dillon Gabriel will be his first enemy to eliminate

Starting Friday, May 9, the Browns will host their annual rookie minicamp-a three-day event that serves as the formal introduction to professional football for the team's seven draft picks, along with several undrafted free agents and players invited to try out.

While it won't include full- practices or immediate roster decisions, the minicamp sets the groundwork for how these players will integrate into the Browns' system heading into the summer.

History has shown that what happens in minicamp can reveal future potential. Just two years ago, fourth-round pick Dawand Jones struggled during early drills. But that tough start made his later development in training camp and the preseason all the more impressive.

Early signs from Gabriel and Sanders

All eyes will be on the Browns' two rookie quarterbacks-third-round selection Dillon Gabriel and fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders-as they begin adjusting to life under center in the NFL. This isn't a full-blown competition yet, but it's a critical first step in a larger process.

This minicamp is more about planting seeds than solidifying roles. Once veterans like Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett re the group during June's mandatory minicamp, the true quarterback competition will begin. Until then, this is the stage for rookies to begin absorbing the playbook, adjusting to NFL speed, and flashing their natural arm talent.

Beyond quarterback, the Browns will be evaluating their other five draft picks as they begin learning the scheme. With only two weeks since the draft, it's unreasonable to expect full comprehension of the system, but what will be evident is raw athleticism.

Each of these rookies was selected in part because of their high-end physical tools. Whether it's the quick-twitch movement of a defensive back or the burst of a rusher, this weekend offers an early glimpse into what the coaching staff saw on film.