Dillon Gabriel may not pass the NFL’s eye test when it comes to physical tools. But ignore the tape measure and stopwatch for a moment — what you’re left with is one of the most statistically accomplished quarterbacks in college football history.
Best Potential Landing Spots for Dillon Gabriel
Gabriel enters the 2025 NFL Draft as an enigma: undersized, under-armed, and overlooked — yet undeniably productive. In six collegiate seasons, the former Oklahoma and UCF quarterback threw for a jaw-dropping 18,722 yards, completed 65.2% of his passes, and accounted for 155 passing touchdowns. Add in another 1,209 rushing yards and 33 rushing scores, and the résumé speaks for itself.
Physically, Gabriel falls short of NFL standards. At 5-foot-11 and 205 pounds, he lacks prototypical size. His arm strength is below average by pro standards — deep outs and sideline throws tend to hang and flutter. And while mobile, he’s more quick than fast, with functional athleticism that won’t wow anyone at a combine.
But the NFL isn’t the combine.
Put the stopwatch down, and you’ll see a quarterback with elite accuracy in the short game, strong decision-making, and a track record of production. These are three teams that could maximize his skill set at the next level.
San Francisco 49ers
No team is better suited to turn Gabriel into a capable NFL contributor than the 49ers. Kyle Shanahan’s offense is built around timing, rhythm, and yards after catch — not vertical bombs. Gabriel’s elite accuracy and decision-making would fit seamlessly in a system that thrives on quick passes and horizontal spacing.
With Brock Purdy entrenched as the starter, the Niners don’t need a new face of the franchise. But if Purdy were to go down, Gabriel would simply need to execute, not create. Hand off, hit slants, execute screens, and let the system (and playmakers) do the work.
New York Jets
The Jets are in flux at quarterback — again. While Justin Fields brings high-end athletic traits, there’s still doubt about his long-term future in New York. That’s where Gabriel could carve out a niche.
Under new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, the Jets are expected to lean into a system that emphasizes quick throws and controlled pocket movement. That’s right in Gabriel’s wheelhouse. His ability to read quickly, get the ball out on time, and deliver accurately on short routes makes him an ideal fit in a system tailored to mask mobility or arm strength concerns.
Indianapolis Colts
Anthony Richardson may have all the physical gifts in the world, but he’s still raw when it comes to touch, anticipation, and field vision. According to Pro Football Network’s QB+ rankings, Richardson ranked 37th in the league — well below average when accounting for factors like pressure response, third-down efficiency, and pocket presence.
That’s where Gabriel presents a contrast. What he lacks in raw arm talent, he makes up for in processing speed and accuracy. In a Colts offense that features Jonathan Taylor and leans on play-action and quick timing routes, Gabriel could thrive as a change-of-pace quarterback — especially indoors on turf.
