In Indianapolis, Dillon Gabriel, the former quarterback from Oregon, is addressing those who have questioned his potential to make it in the NFL due to his height. Standing at 5-foot-11, Gabriel is aspiring to join the selective group of starting quarterbacks like Kyler Murray, Bryce Young, and Russell Wilson, who are all under six feet tall.
Reflecting on his journey, Gabriel explained at the NFL scouting combine on Friday, “I’ve built up extensive experience, starting from my freshman year in high school through to my senior varsity season, and I’ve continued that momentum in college. I’m confident in my leadership and winning track record, demonstrating my abilities across different levels, including big games.”
Gabriel was among the finalists for the Heisman Trophy, an accolade claimed by both Young and Murray during their college finales. His college career spanned six years, with tenures at UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon, where he has absorbed a wealth of football knowledge yet remains eager to learn more.
According to ESPN’s NFL draft expert Jordan Reid, Gabriel ranks as the fourth-best quarterback and is projected to be selected on the second day of the draft. Gabriel has engaged in discussions with several teams, highlighting interactions with the Las Vegas Raiders and the Dallas Cowboys.
Gabriel’s message to potential teams is clear: “I want to show teams that I’m capable of winning games. If they’re looking for a winner and a franchise leader, they know where to find me.”
