Dillon Gabriel, the Oregon Ducks quarterback, has been making waves in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft. While Cameron Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Jalen Milroe have long been viewed as the top three quarterbacks, Gabriel is rapidly climbing the rankings. His performance at the Senior Bowl has sparked renewed interest and excitement among scouts and fans alike.
Senior Bowl Success
Gabriel’s stock has soared following what many are calling a brilliant showing at the Senior Bowl. Reports indicate that he had the "best day" of any quarterback in attendance, showcasing his talent and poise under pressure. This performance has led many to reassess his potential, with some analysts now placing him as the No. 3 quarterback in the upcoming draft.
Record-Breaking College Career
Before entering the draft conversation, Gabriel had an impressive college career. He played a record 63 Division I games, amassing an astounding 18,722 passing yards, which ranks second all-time, just behind Case Keenum. His 46 wins as a starter, including a 13-1 record last season with the Ducks, speak volumes about his ability to lead a team. However, despite his accolades, questions about his size and athleticism have kept him from being a consensus top pick.
Gabriel stands at 5 feet 11 inches, which is considered less than optimal for an NFL quarterback. At 24 years old, he is also two years older than some of his competition, such as Ward and Sanders. Additionally, being a left-handed quarterback can require adjustments for receivers and linemen, adding another layer of complexity to his transition to the professional level.
Arm Strength Confusion
One of the most talked-about aspects of Gabriel’s pre-draft process was a report claiming he threw the fastest ball in Senior Bowl history at 74.9 mph. This figure was said to shatter the previous record held by notable quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes. However, this information was later debunked, as the speed measured was the initial air speed rather than the speed recorded by a radar gun.
Dom Russo, a supervisor at Zebra Sports, explained the difference, likening it to how baseball pitchers are measured. "It’s going to be two completely different things," he stated. The initial air speed of 74.9 mph does place Gabriel among the top quarterbacks, ranking eighth among the 48 who have participated in the Senior Bowl since 2018.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Despite the confusion surrounding his arm strength, Gabriel’s skills on the field are undeniable. Analysts at PFF have highlighted his fast release, quick footwork, and ability to maintain composure under pressure as key strengths. He can effectively go through his reads without panicking, which is crucial for a successful NFL quarterback.
However, scouts have also pointed out weaknesses in his game. His height, arm strength, and overall mobility have been flagged as areas for improvement. As he prepares for the NFL, these factors will be critical in determining how teams view him in the draft.
Embracing His Journey
Gabriel has also made headlines for his unique approach to the Senior Bowl, where he sported three different logos on his helmet, representing the Oregon Ducks, Oklahoma Sooners, and UCF Knights. "That’s not just me trying to be self-promoting," he explained. "Those three spots mean a lot to me and are a huge part of me being me." This gesture not only showcases his pride in his collegiate journey but also his ability to connect with fans and teammates alike.
As the draft approaches, the buzz surrounding Gabriel continues to grow. Will he solidify his position as a top quarterback, or will concerns about his size and athleticism hold him back? One thing is for sure: his performance at the Senior Bowl has opened doors and created excitement among NFL teams.
The Road Ahead
With the draft just around the corner, Gabriel’s journey is a testament to the unpredictability of the NFL landscape. He has proven that hard work and determination can lead to unexpected opportunities. As he prepares to take the next step in his career, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where he lands.
In a league that thrives on talent and potential, Dillon Gabriel’s rise is a story worth following. Whether he becomes the next big star or faces challenges along the way, his journey is a reminder of the passion and dedication that fuels the NFL. As we gear up for the 2025 draft, one thing is certain: Dillon Gabriel is a name that will not be easily forgotten.
