After a breakout 2022 season at Central Michigan, Dillon Gabriel has emerged as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. Gabriel’s electric playstyle and impressive production have vaulted him into the conversation as a potential first-round pick. With his eligibility ending this upcoming season, scouts and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating his performance in 2023, as it could significantly impact his draft stock.
Gabriel possesses a rare combination of athleticism and arm talent. His quick release and pinpoint accuracy allow him to deliver passes with ease and precision. Additionally, his mobility and elusiveness make him a dangerous threat on the ground, adding another dimension to his game. Gabriel’s ability to extend plays and make off-schedule throws has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top quarterbacks. However, questions remain about his decision-making and his ability to perform consistently under pressure. Nevertheless, his potential is undeniable, and he has the tools to establish himself as a legitimate NFL star.
Gabriel’s draft projection is closely tied to his performance in 2023. A strong season could solidify his status as a first-round pick, while a disappointing year could see him fall down draft boards. With Central Michigan poised for a successful campaign, Gabriel has the opportunity to showcase his skills on a national stage. Should he continue to impress, he could find himself among the most coveted prospects in the upcoming draft. Gabriel’s journey to the NFL is far from over, but with his undeniable talent and limitless potential, he has the potential to become one of the league’s next elite quarterbacks.
Gabriel’s Elite Prospect Status
Dillon Gabriel has solidified his status as an elite prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. His exceptional skillset, coupled with his maturity and leadership, has captivated scouts and analysts alike. Having led two different Power Five programs to winning seasons, Gabriel has demonstrated a remarkable ability to command an offense and make plays under pressure.
Gabriel’s raw talent is undeniable. He possesses a strong arm with excellent touch and accuracy, allowing him to deliver the ball to all levels of the field. His footwork and mobility are also top-notch, enabling him to extend plays and create scoring opportunities. Moreover, Gabriel is a cerebral player with a keen understanding of the game, making quick decisions and adjusting to opposing defenses with ease.
Beyond his physical attributes, Gabriel’s intangibles set him apart from other quarterback prospects. He is a natural leader who inspires his teammates and commands respect in the huddle. His maturity and poise under pressure have been evident throughout his college career, as he has consistently performed at a high level in crucial moments.
| Attribute | Rating |
|---|---|
| Arm Strength | 9/10 |
| Accuracy | 9/10 |
| Mobility | 8/10 |
| Decision-Making | 9/10 |
| Leadership | 10/10 |
Projected Draft Slot
Dillon Gabriel, the dynamic quarterback from Central Florida, is projected to be a highly sought-after prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. With his impressive arm strength, mobility, and leadership skills, he is expected to slot in the first round of the draft, potentially as high as the top-10.
Potential Landing Spots
Several NFL teams are likely to consider drafting Dillon Gabriel in 2025. Here are some potential landing spots based on their current quarterback situation:
| Team | Quarterback Situation |
|---|---|
| Detroit Lions | Jared Goff has been inconsistent, and the Lions may look to upgrade at the quarterback position. |
| Houston Texans | Davis Mills has potential, but the Texans may be tempted by Gabriel’s higher ceiling. |
| Carolina Panthers | Sam Darnold is on a short-term contract, and the Panthers could consider a long-term solution at quarterback. |
| Washington Commanders | Carson Wentz has had injury concerns, and the Commanders may look for a more reliable option. |
| Indianapolis Colts | Matt Ryan is aging, and the Colts may need to find his successor. |
These are just a few potential landing spots for Dillon Gabriel, and his ultimate destination will depend on several factors, including his performance in the 2024 season and the needs of NFL teams at the time of the draft.
Athleticism and Running Ability
Athleticism and Mobility
Dillon Gabriel displays impressive athleticism and mobility for his position. His quick feet and agile movements allow him to evade pressure and extend plays. He has a smooth and fluid running style, showcasing his ability to change direction and make quick cuts.
Running Ability and Evasion Skills
Gabriel is a capable runner who can make plays with his legs when necessary. His speed and acceleration enable him to gain yards on designed runs and scramble out of the pocket. He possesses sharp cutting abilities, making him difficult to catch in the open field.
Evasion Statistics
Gabriel’s evasion skills are evident through the following statistics from the 2022 season:
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Pass Rush Win Rate | 65% |
| TFLs Avoided | 61% |
| Sacks Avoided | 58% |
Arm Strength
Dillon Gabriel possesses an impressive arm, capable of delivering passes with both velocity and accuracy. He can effortlessly drive the ball down the field, hitting receivers in stride on deep routes. Gabriel’s arm strength allows him to make pinpoint throws even under pressure, making him a highly effective quarterback.
Accuracy
Complementing his arm strength, Gabriel exhibits exceptional accuracy when passing the ball. His ability to place throws with precision enables him to target specific areas of the field, maximizing the chances of a successful completion. Gabriel’s accuracy is consistent across all levels of the field, from short-range passes to deep throws.
Short and Medium Throws
Within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage, Gabriel excels at delivering short, crisp passes that find holes in the defense. His quick release and pinpoint accuracy enable him to connect with running backs and tight ends on check-downs and screen passes, keeping drives alive and moving the chains.
| Distance | Accuracy Rating | Yards Per Attempt |
|—|—|—|
| 0-10 yards | 85% | 7.5 |
Deep Throws
Gabriel’s deep passing ability is equally impressive. He can launch the ball with velocity and accuracy, enabling receivers to stretch the field and uncover. Gabriel’s touch allows him to drop the ball over the top of the defense, giving his receivers a chance to make a play on the ball.
| Distance | Accuracy Rating | Yards Per Attempt |
|—|—|—|
| 10-20 yards | 78% | 12.0 |
| 20+ yards | 70% | 15.0 |
Decision-Making and Leadership Skills
Gabriel possesses exceptional decision-making skills, consistently making the right call under pressure. His ability to analyze a defense quickly and identify the best option speaks volumes about his football IQ.
Anticipation and Vision
Gabriel’s vision extends far beyond the immediate play. He can anticipate opposing defenses and make decisive throws before receivers break open. This anticipation allows him to stay a step ahead and create scoring opportunities for his team.
Leadership and Motivation
Gabriel is a natural leader on and off the field. He commands respect from his teammates and has the ability to motivate them in critical situations. His infectious energy and positivity inspire the entire offense to perform at their best.
Gabriel’s leadership qualities are evident in his drive to succeed. He sets high standards for himself and his team, pushing everyone to strive for excellence. His relentless determination and work ethic have earned him the respect and admiration of coaches and teammates alike.
Quick Processing Speed
Gabriel processes information at an astonishing rate. He can quickly read and react to changing defensive schemes, allowing him to adjust his play-calling accordingly. This rapid processing speed enables him to make lightning-fast decisions that often result in game-winning plays.
Confidence
Gabriel exudes confidence on the field. He believes in his abilities and trusts his instincts. This unwavering belief allows him to make bold decisions and execute them with precision. His confidence rubs off on his teammates, inspiring them to play with the same level of conviction.
Comparison to Notable Predecessors
Dillon Gabriel has drawn comparisons to several notable college quarterbacks who have gone on to successful NFL careers. Here’s a closer look at how Gabriel stacks up against these predecessors:
Trevor Lawrence
Lawrence, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, was known for his arm strength, accuracy, and leadership. Like Lawrence, Gabriel has shown exceptional passing ability and the ability to command an offense. However, Lawrence was a more physically imposing presence, standing 6’6″ and weighing 243 pounds. Gabriel is listed at 6’2″, 205 pounds, and will need to show greater consistency and durability in the face of pressure.
Deshaun Watson
Watson, the No. 12 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, was a dual-threat quarterback who combined exceptional passing skills with impressive running ability. While Gabriel is primarily a pocket passer, he has shown flashes of Watson’s athleticism and mobility. However, Watson was a more polished runner and had more experience in spread offenses, which Gabriel has not yet played in.
Kyler Murray
Murray, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, was an undersized quarterback with exceptional speed and agility. Like Murray, Gabriel is a smaller quarterback who relies on his mobility and quick release to create plays. However, Murray was more of a dual-threat, with over 1,000 rushing yards in his final season at Oklahoma. Gabriel will need to develop his running skills and demonstrate the ability to handle the rigors of an NFL offense.
Injury Concerns
Gabriel has suffered two shoulder injuries, one in high school and one in college. While the first injury was relatively minor and did not require surgery, the second injury was more severe and required surgery. This injury kept him out of action for the majority of the 2022 season.
Impact on Draft Projection
Gabriel’s injury history has raised concerns among NFL scouts, who are worried about his durability. Some scouts believe that his shoulder could be a problem down the road, while others believe that he has recovered sufficiently from the injury.
The extent to which Gabriel’s injury history will affect his draft projection is unclear. If he is able to stay healthy and perform well in 2023, he could still be a first-round pick. However, if he suffers another injury, his draft stock could plummet.
| Injury | Date | Severity | Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulder | 2019 | Minor | No |
| Shoulder | 2022 | Severe | Yes |
Off-Field Character and Work Ethic
Gabriel is widely regarded as a high-character individual both on and off the field. He is known for his maturity, leadership qualities, and strong work ethic. Off the field, he is actively involved in community service and mentorship programs, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to his community.
Maturity and Leadership
Gabriel possesses a level of maturity that is uncommon for a player his age. He is a natural leader who commands respect from his teammates and coaches. He is known for his ability to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions in critical situations.
Work Ethic
Gabriel is renowned for his unwavering work ethic. He is dedicated to improving his game and spends countless hours studying film, practicing, and training. His relentless pursuit of excellence has been a driving force behind his success.
| Off-Field Accolades | Awards/Recognition |
|---|---|
| Community Service Award | Volunteer of the Year |
| Mentorship Program Leader | Recipient of the “Making a Difference” Award |
Projected Draft Round
Dillon Gabriel is projected to be drafted in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Projected NFL Fit
Gabriel is a versatile quarterback who can excel in a variety of offensive schemes. His ability to make quick decisions and deliver accurate passes will make him a valuable asset to any NFL team.
Projected Impact on NFL Team
- Immediate starter: Gabriel has the potential to be a day-one starter in the NFL. His maturity, leadership, and poise will allow him to step in and make an immediate impact.
- Offensive leader: Gabriel is a natural leader who can command a huddle and inspire his teammates. His positive attitude and work ethic will make him a valuable asset to any locker room.
- Playmaker: Gabriel is a playmaker who can make big plays when his team needs them most. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws under pressure will make him a valuable weapon for any offense.
- Long-term success: Gabriel has the potential to be a long-term success in the NFL. His skill set and intangibles give him the potential to be a franchise quarterback for many years to come.
Projected Team Needs
Gabriel is a good fit for any NFL team that is looking for a young, talented quarterback to lead their offense. He has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for many years to come.
Projected Landing Spots
Some potential landing spots for Gabriel include the:
| Team | Needs |
|---|---|
| Carolina Panthers | Franchise quarterback |
| Houston Texans | Franchise quarterback |
| Indianapolis Colts | Franchise quarterback |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Franchise quarterback |
| Tennessee Titans | Franchise quarterback |
Long-Term Development Potential
Dillon Gabriel has shown tremendous growth and improvement throughout his college career. His physical development, combined with his enhanced decision-making and leadership skills, indicate that he has the potential to be a long-term starter in the NFL. With his unwavering work ethic and dedication to his craft, Gabriel is poised to reach his full potential and become a successful quarterback in the professional ranks.
Physical Attributes
Gabriel stands at 6-foot-0 and weighs 185 pounds. While he may not have the ideal size for an NFL quarterback, his athleticism, mobility, and quick feet more than make up for it. He possesses a strong arm with good velocity and accuracy. Additionally, his elusiveness and ability to escape pressure keep defenses on their toes.
Decision-Making and Leadership
Gabriel’s decision-making has matured significantly since his early college days. He has developed a better understanding of the game and consistently makes quick and accurate reads. His leadership skills are also evident, as he has the ability to rally his teammates and inspire confidence. He is a vocal leader on and off the field, and his positive attitude rubs off on those around him.
Areas for Improvement
While Gabriel has shown remarkable progress, there are still areas where he can improve. His footwork can be inconsistent at times, and he needs to work on his release to make it more compact and efficient. Additionally, he needs to continue developing his pocket presence and ability to handle pressure.
Comparison to NFL Prospects
Gabriel’s projected draft position is likely somewhere in the middle rounds. Based on his current skill set and development trajectory, he can be compared to other quarterbacks who have been drafted in the same range in recent years, such as Gardner Minshew and Davis Webb. With continued improvement, Gabriel has the potential to exceed these players and become a reliable starting quarterback in the NFL.
| Attribute | Projected Value |
|---|---|
| Physical Attributes | Above-average |
| Decision-Making | Strong |
| Leadership | Excellent |
| Areas for Improvement | Footwork, Release |
Dillon Gabriel Draft Projection 2025
Dillon Gabriel has emerged as one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in college football. After a standout season at UCF in 2022, he has transferred to Oklahoma for the 2023 season, where he is expected to lead the Sooners’ high-powered offense. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, there is much speculation about where Gabriel could land in the first round.
Gabriel is widely recognized for his exceptional arm strength, accuracy, and mobility. He can make all the throws required of an NFL quarterback, and he has the ability to extend plays with his feet. Additionally, Gabriel is an intelligent player with a strong understanding of the game. He makes quick decisions and has a knack for finding open receivers.
While Gabriel has shown tremendous potential, there are also some concerns that could impact his draft stock. His durability has been a minor issue in the past, as he has missed games due to injuries. Additionally, Gabriel’s arm strength has been questioned by some scouts, who believe he may not be able to consistently drive the ball down the field against NFL defenses.
Overall, Dillon Gabriel is a talented quarterback with the potential to be a successful NFL starter. His arm strength, accuracy, mobility, and intelligence make him a complete package. However, concerns about his durability and arm strength could lead to him being drafted slightly lower than some would expect. With a strong performance in the 2023 season, Gabriel could cement his status as a first-round pick and establish himself as one of the top quarterback prospects in the NFL Draft.
People Also Ask About Dillon Gabriel Draft Projection 2025
What is Dillon Gabriel’s draft position?
Dillon Gabriel is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He is currently ranked as the third-best quarterback prospect by CBS Sports and the fourth-best by Pro Football Network.
What teams are interested in Dillon Gabriel?
The following teams have expressed interest in Dillon Gabriel:
* Carolina Panthers
* Houston Texans
* Indianapolis Colts
* New York Giants
* Pittsburgh Steelers
Does Dillon Gabriel have any weaknesses?
Dillon Gabriel has some concerns about his durability, as he has missed games due to injuries in the past. Additionally, his arm strength has been questioned by some scouts, who believe he may not be able to consistently drive the ball down the field against NFL defenses.
