Dillon Gabriel’s college football life is as dynamic and exciting as a game-winning touchdown throw. From humble beginnings in Hawaii to record-breaking performances at blue-chip programs, Gabriel has an unusual toughness that marks him as the best quarterback in his generation.
And now, as he starts the next chapter of his NFL life with the Cleveland Browns, it’s the right time to look back at his amazing journey in college football. Buckle up as we look back at the journey of this thrilling signal-caller.
Dillon Gabriel’s College Football Career
Gabriel was raised and born in Mililani, Hawaii, and was a football prodigy from his childhood. His school days were memorable, as he set several records on the state level and won the Gatorade High School Football Player of the Year in Hawaii in 2018. His passing game and precise passes impressed college teams all over the nation.
Gabriel’s college football life began earnestly in 2019 at the University of Central Florida (UCF). Well, he was off to a quick start. With the starting job as a first-year player, Gabriel led UCF to a 10-3 record, throwing for over 3,600 yards and 29 touchdowns.
His play led UCF to win the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Championship and the AAC Offensive Player of the Year award. Gabriel was not only great but also a force of nature who made everyone sit up and take notice.
Throughout the ensuing years, Gabriel solidified himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. In 2020, he passed for more than 3,500 yards and 32 touchdowns. He also established himself as an elite-level talent. His leadership of UCF’s explosive offense placed him among the most dangerous quarterbacks to watch in college football.
However, the 2021 season suddenly detracted when Gabriel broke his clavicle, sidelining him for most of the year. But as with all great players, setbacks are stepping stones to greater things. After his injury, Gabriel decided to enter the portal of transfers, starting a new chapter of his career.
From UCF to Oklahoma: A New Challenge
In January of 2022, Gabriel rocked the world of college football by announcing he was transferring to the University of Oklahoma. The transfer was a big one, as it had him playing for a high-profile program under head man Brent Venables. And with that, the offense needs reloading with the loss of former quarterback Spencer Rattler.
It did not take Gabriel long to get into the mix at Oklahoma. In 2022, he passed for over 3,500 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, taking the Sooners to a 6-6 record. Evidently, explosive playmaking skills and leadership were precisely what Oklahoma required.
In 2023, Gabriel took the Sooners to a 10-2 record with 3,800 passing yards and 30 touchdowns. His steady brilliance earned him First-Team All-Big 12 recognition every season, increasing his draft stock.
The Final Year in the Spotlight
Just as it looked like Gabriel was settling into a groove, he surprised the football world again in December 2023. Gabriel moved to the University of Oregon for the second year running—is this a change of heart?
Gabriel believed he had to compete against some of the nation’s strongest defenses in the Pac-12.
Gabriel was simply incredible during his final year at college. Oregon’s 13-1 record in 2024 saw Gabriel pass more than 3,800 yards and 30 touchdowns. For his outstanding performance, Gabriel was awarded the First-Team All-Big Ten and conference Offensive Player of the Year.
Gabriel’s Oregon offense was explosive and nearly impenetrable, illustrating his maturity, calmness, and capacity to perform at a high level under high-pressure situations.
When Gabriel graduated from college, he had established several records in the NCAA, such as the record for career responsible for touchdowns, which stood at more than 190. Being successful in college wasn’t merely all about self-realization, as it was also about the legacy he left as one of the most thrilling quarterbacks of his time.
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Like most players emerging from a record-breaking career, Gabriel’s next step is joining L. And in 2025, the Cleveland Browns saw that potential and selected him in the third round of the NFL Draft with the 94th overall selection.
At only 23, Gabriel comes to the NFL with an impressive resume. His skill at reading defenses, throwing on the run accurately, and directing his team in crunch time has impressed coaches and scouts.
While the Browns’ quarterback corps is full of veterans, including Joe Flacco and first-round draft pick Kenny Pickett, Gabriel’s work ethic and skill level make him a player to watch. Gabriel’s football career at the college level is one of perseverance, silencing critics, and becoming great.
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