Anyone who has followed college football the past couple of years will recognize the name Dillon Gabriel. Starting as a 3 star recruit from Hawaii, Dillon Gabriel has transformed himself into one of the most recognizable quarterbacks in college football.
Dillon’s journey has been an unique one. Starting off as an under recruited quarterback from Hawaii, Dillon committed to UCF even after picking up offers from USC and Georgia towards the tail end of his recruitment. Taking over for McKenzie Milton, he light up opposing defenses throwing for over 7000 yards and 61 touchdowns before suffering a season-ending clavicle injury in 2021.
Putting his name in the transfer portal, Dillon committed to Oklahoma to play in Jeff Lebby’s offense. Throwing for over 6000 yards and 55 touchdowns with the Sooners, Dillon transferred to Oregon to play his final season with Dan Lanning and the Ducks.
PLAYER INFO
Name: Dillon Gabriel
Jersey: 8
Position: QB
Class: Senior
School: Oregon
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 200
Dillon Gabriel’s STRENGTHS
Dillon has started 56 games in his college career. He is solid at recognizing defenses and knowing when to change the play/where to throw the ball. He rarely makes mistakes, having great ball placement. He usually throws his receiver the ability to gain YAC. He is extremely accurate, as his accuracy percentage has gone up every way and it is currently at 77%. He is a great leader, having been named a captain at all 3 places he has played. Solid arm strength with the ability to throw it at all 3 levels. While he has adequate athleticism, he can make a play with his feet and get yards running.
Dillon Gabriel’s WEAKNESSES
His size is a concern as he might have a hard turn dealing with the physicality of the NFL. His athleticism is below average, as he can extend plays out of the pocket and make a running play but doesn’t have good speed to where defenses are going game plan around it. While he has solid strength, he lacks zip on the ball. There are times during games where he hesitates on throws and misses open windows. His age could be a concern for some teams, as he will be 24 when he enters the league.
DRAFT PROJECTION
I have Gabriel slated as a Day 3 pick. His play reminds me of both Stetson Bennett and Case Keenum, good QBs who are better as backup but can lead the offense when they step in. While he is smart, accurate, and tough, his size and arm strength limits him.
The best draft fit for Dillon Gabriel, in my opinion, would be the Miami Dolphins. Mike McDaniel’s offense requires timely throws and quick passes, which fits Gabriel the best. While this is not the strongest QB draft class, there are teams that will take a look at Gabriel as he can be a strong backup QB and add good depth to QB rooms. Team that fall into that category: Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
