Dillon Gabriel: The Unlikely Franchise Quarterback
At 5-foot-11 and 202 pounds, Dillon Gabriel doesn’t fit the traditional mold of a franchise quarterback. However, his statistics and achievements are hard to ignore. Gabriel set the NCAA record for total touchdowns and ranks second in Division I history for passing yards. Despite his modest stature, he is confident that his skills will translate to the NFL. "I challenge everyone to just watch the tape," Gabriel said at the NFL Combine. "You’ll see the evolution from 2019 to now, the growth I’ve made not only physically, but mentally. My throwing motion has become more polished and detailed. That won’t change. I’m eager to continue to learn and grow, but I’m also confident in my tape."
The Road to the NFL
Last season, Russell Wilson, Bryce Young, and Kyler Murray were the only starting quarterbacks in the NFL under 6 feet tall. Smaller quarterbacks have always had to prove themselves, which is why Gabriel, unlike top quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, will participate in the QB drills at the NFL Combine. Gabriel’s depth of experience as a quarterback is a significant advantage. He has been a starting quarterback since his freshman year at Mililani High School in Hawaii and then went on to start 63 games in college, playing for Central Florida, Oklahoma, and Oregon. The 24-year-old Heisman Trophy finalist emphasizes his leadership skills, willingness to learn, and consistent winning record as key attributes that make him a strong candidate for the NFL. Gabriel’s college record of 46-17 as a starter speaks volumes about his ability to lead and perform under pressure.
A Leader on the Field
Gabriel’s leadership is evident both on and off the field. In his final college season, he led the Oregon Ducks to a 13-1 record, completing 73% of his passes for 3,857 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. His teammate, Oregon receiver Traeshon Holden, raves about Gabriel’s impact. "He’s a baller," Holden said. "One of the best quarterbacks I’ve played with. He comes into the locker room, and everybody just floats to him. He connects with everybody. He’s somebody who’s going to make it happen every time he can." Gabriel’s ability to inspire his teammates and create a cohesive team dynamic is a rare and valuable quality.
Unique Characteristics and Comparisons
Dillon Gabriel is often compared to fellow left-handed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, another native of Hawaii. Along with Tagovailoa, Gabriel studied left-handed throwers like Kellen Moore and Michael Vick during his formative years. Currently, there are only two left-handed starting quarterbacks in the NFL: Tagovailoa and the Falcons’ Michael Penix Jr. "There’s very few of us, which is cool," Gabriel said. "It makes us different. But I think more than that, there are different playing styles. Tua is a great person to be compared to. He’s a guy I watched growing up and has had a lot of success." Despite the left-handed throw, Holden noted that Gabriel’s passes are catchable. "When the ball is in the air, it spins a different way; instead of coming towards you, it goes the opposite way," Holden explained. "We had the Monarc [robotic QB] machine, and we flipped that machine to make it left-handed. Just catching on that helped a lot. Dillon throws a great ball. It isn’t too different, but that’s probably the only thing, the way it’s in the air."
Projections and Interviews
Gabriel is projected to be a Day 2 or Day 3 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. His participation in the quarterback drills at the NFL Combine is crucial to showcasing his skills and proving his worth to potential teams. He has already had interviews with the Raiders and Dolphins at the combine this week. Gabriel is looking for a team that aligns well with his values, emphasizing the importance of a positive relationship with players, coaches, and ownership. "If a team wants a winner, a franchise leader, then they know who to call," Gabriel confidently stated. His approach reflects a blend of self-assuredness and humility, traits that are essential for a successful quarterback at any level.
A Future to Watch
Dillon Gabriel’s journey from a high school standout to a potential NFL draftee is a testament to his dedication and resilience. His unique combination of experience, leadership, and adaptability makes him a compelling prospect for teams seeking a quarterback who can make an immediate impact. While the physical attributes of NFL quarterbacks are often scrutinized, Gabriel’s performance and character are clear indicators that he has what it takes to succeed. As teams consider their options in the draft, Gabriel’s tape and interviews will undoubtedly provide valuable insights into his potential. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where and how this talented left-handed quarterback finds his place in the league.
Eric D. Williams has been covering the NFL for over a decade, bringing extensive experience to his role as a sports journalist. His work has included stints covering the Los Angeles Rams for Sports Illustrated, the Los Angeles Chargers for ESPN, and the Seattle Seahawks for the Tacoma News Tribune. Follow him on Twitter at @eric_d_williams for more in-depth insights into the NFL and its prospects.
