Moving from college football to the NFL means leaving teammates, coaches, and familiar systems behind. But for Dillon Gabriel, one connection has stayed strong through the transition.
The Cleveland Browns quarterback and his former Oregon coach, Dan Lanning, continue to maintain their relationship, proving that some bonds extend far beyond the gridiron.
How Does Dan Lanning Stay Connected with Gabriel?
Oregon’s 2024-25 season produced historic results, with the Ducks setting a program record by placing 10 players in the 2025 NFL Draft. Gabriel led that group as a third-round selection by Cleveland, but his departure from Eugene didn’t end his relationship with the coaching staff.
On a recent episode of the Cover 3 Podcast, Lanning addressed questions about losing such a talented quarterback. When host Chip Patterson asked about Gabriel’s prospects in Cleveland’s competitive quarterback room, the Oregon coach remained diplomatic, noting that the answer would become clear once the NFL season begins.
However, Lanning’s response about staying in touch with his former signal-caller revealed just how deep their connection runs. The relationship now extends beyond just coach and player, involving their entire families.
“Yeah, my wife actually just saw his fiancée this past week. My youngest son went and played in a flag football tournament over there in Ohio. So I think they got to stop by and catch up. But we’re really proud of Dillon, we’re proud of all our guys that have gone to the NFL,” Lanning said.
What Did Dillon Gabriel Accomplish at Oregon?
Gabriel’s final college season had all the ingredients for a perfect ending. The Ducks rolled through an undefeated regular season, captured the Big Ten Championship, and earned their spot in the College Football Playoff. Unfortunately, Ohio State ended their championship dreams in the playoff round.
Despite that disappointing finish, Gabriel’s achievements in 2024-25 were remarkable. He finished his college career as the FBS all-time leader in total touchdowns with 189, while his 18,722 passing yards placed him second in NCAA history behind only Case Keenum.
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Those numbers now follow him to Cleveland, where Gabriel faces one of the league’s most competitive quarterback battles. The Browns’ roster includes veteran Joe Flacco, former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett, and highly touted rookie Shedeur Sanders.
Gabriel’s college success doesn’t guarantee him anything in Cleveland. Flacco brings years of NFL experience, Pickett has proven he can start at the professional level, and Sanders enters with enormous expectations as a top draft pick.
Meanwhile, back in Eugene, the Ducks prepare for life after Gabriel. Dante Moore, a former five-star recruit whose college journey has taken several unexpected turns, is projected to take over as Oregon’s starting quarterback in 2025-26.
With Lanning’s proven ability to develop quarterbacks and Oregon’s offensive system, Moore can follow Gabriel’s path from college success to NFL draft selection.
