Dillon Gabriel: The Undersized Quarterback with a Big Vision for the NFL
Dillon Gabriel is not your typical franchise quarterback. Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 202 pounds, he doesn’t fit the mold of the prototypical NFL signal-caller, who is often taller, heavier, and more physically imposing. Yet, Gabriel’s impressive college career and unwavering confidence are making scouts and analysts take notice. After setting records and proving himself as one of the most productive quarterbacks in NCAA history, Gabriel is ready to silence doubters and Show he belongs at the next level. At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, he emphasized his growth, both physically and mentally, and challenged everyone to watch his tape. “You’ll see the evolution from 2019 to now,” he said. “I’m confident in my tape.”
Overcoming the Height Concern: A Story of Perseverance
Gabriel’s height has long been a topic of discussion. In the NFL, shorter quarterbacks often face an uphill battle to prove they can succeed in a league dominated by towering passers. However, he’s not alone in defying the odds. Players like Russell Wilson, Kyler Murray, and Drew Brees have shown that height isn’t everything. Last season, Wilson, Murray, and Bryce Young were among the few starting quarterbacks under 6 feet tall, proving that smaller QBs can thrive if they have the right combination of skill, smarts, and determination. Gabriel knows this reality all too well, which is why he chose to participate in the quarterback drills at the NFL Combine—a decision that sets him apart from some of the top prospects in this year’s draft.
A Legacy of Leadership and Success
What sets Gabriel apart is his extensive experience and leadership qualities. Since his freshman year in high school, he has been a starting quarterback, leading his teams to victory after victory. In college, he played 63 games over six years, splitting time between Central Florida, Oklahoma, and Oregon. His consistent performances earned him a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist, and he compiled a 46-17 record as a college starter. In his final season with the Oregon Ducks, he led the team to a 13-1 record, completing 73% of his passes for 3,857 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. For Gabriel, it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about the intangibles. “I’m a winner,” he said. “I’ve won at all three spots, done it in big games and everything in between. And I’m a learner. I’m eager to grow.”
A Rare Left-Handed Talent with a Unique Perspective
Gabriel is also one of the few left-handed quarterbacks in the NFL pipeline, a distinction that makes him stand out in a world dominated by right-handed throwers. He draws comparisons to Tua Tagovailoa, another Hawaiian lefty who has found success in the league. Growing up, Gabriel studied left-handed quarterbacks like Kellen Moore and Michael Vick, learning from their strengths and adapting them to his own game. While his left-handedness may present a slight adjustment for receivers—“the ball spins a different way,” Oregon receiver Traeshon Holden explained—it hasn’t hindered his ability to deliver accurate, catchable passes. If anything, it adds a layer of unpredictability to his game.
The NFL Draft and Finding the Right Fit
As the NFL Draft approaches, Gabriel is projected to be a Day 2 or Day 3 pick, meaning he’s not expected to be selected in the first round but is highly likely to find a home with a team in need of a developmental quarterback. He’s already met with teams like the Raiders and Dolphins at the combine, and he’s clear about what he’s looking for in a franchise. “If a team wants a winner, a franchise leader, then they know who to call,” he said. Gabriel believes that alignment with players, coaches, and ownership is key to his success. While some quarterbacks may have bigger names or more prestige, Gabriel’s focus is on finding the right environment where he can grow and lead.
Dillon Gabriel: A Winner with a Vision for Greatness
Dillon Gabriel’s story is one of resilience, determination, and a refusal to let doubters define his journey. While he may not fit the traditional mold of an NFL quarterback, his achievements on the field and his leadership off it speak for themselves. As he prepares to enter the NFL, Gabriel carries the confidence of someone who has proven himself at every level. He knows the challenges ahead—whether it’s his size, his left-handedness, or the fierce competition for roster spots—but he’s ready to embrace them. For Gabriel, the NFL is not just a destination; it’s an opportunity to continue growing, learning, and proving that winners come in all sizes.
