"I don't have to sell anything": Dillon Gabriel has powerful response to why he is a franchise player heading into the NFL

Dillon Gabriel is no stranger to big moments, and tonight, the Oregon quarterback is on college football’s grandest stage as a Heisman Trophy finalist. After leading the Ducks to an undefeated 13-0 season and securing a Big Ten championship, the sixth-year senior has become an intriguing prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The 23-year-old QB has thrown for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns this season, earning Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year honors. Under coach Dan Lanning and Gabriel’s leadership in attack, Oregon is ranked first in the College Football Playoff.

When asked how he’d pitch himself as a franchise quarterback to NFL GMs, Gabriel responded:

“I don't think I have to sell anything. I'm very confident in who I am. I'm the same guy when lights are on and when you turn off the light at night.”

“Played the most football, probably any quarterback that can play within that time period. So a lot of experience, a lot of snaps, been around a bunch of different people, and I think more than the tape, it's the person. So I would say the tape, and then let's have a conversation, just meet one another.”

His confidence originated from years of experience, including stints with the Oklahoma Sooners and now the Ducks.

Gabriel’s leadership, combined with his impressive stats, make him an intriguing draft pick.

Where is Dillon Gabriel projected to land in 2025 NFL Draft?

Gabriel led the Ducks to an undefeated season, a Big Ten championship, and the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. His experience is unmatched, having played 63 games across three conferences in his college career.

The Ducks quarterback has quick decision-making ability, along with accuracy and the ability to run RPO plays efficiently. He thrives in short to intermediate-passing situations. Despite his impressive resume, Gabriel does have his limitations.

However, Gabriel doesn't grade out well as an NFL prospect. At 23 years old and slightly undersized for the NFL, he lacks the arm strength required for long passes toward the end zone. This makes him more suited for West Coast-style offenses.

He is the only one of the four Heisman finalists not projected to be a first-round pick. Analysts project him as a late Day 2 or Day 3 draft pick, but his leadership and experience could make him a valuable backup.

Possible NFL fits for Dillon Gabriel include the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins, and Los Angeles Rams, teams prioritizing timing-based, quarterback-friendly systems.

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