With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, there’s a name that’s generating buzz among fans and analysts alike: Dillon Gabriel. After diving deep into Gabriel’s film from this season, I’m convinced that he has the makings of a starting caliber quarterback in the NFL. Specifically, if the Miami Dolphins were to draft him, I believe he could come in and make an immediate impact.
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Now, let me be clear—this is a prediction, not a reporting of facts. But hear me out: the Dolphins could greatly benefit from adding Gabriel to their roster. As we look ahead, it’s essential to consider Miami’s quarterback situation. Tua Tagovailoa has shown remarkable efficiency under head coach Mike McDaniel’s innovative offense. However, the Dolphins should have a backup plan ready as a precaution against injuries. Gabriel, after five seasons in college football—spanning three different programs from UCF to Oklahoma to Oregon—could fit that bill perfectly.
One striking similarity between Dillon Gabriel and Tua Tagovailoa lies in their left-handed throwing style and their rapid release. Gabriel isn’t shy about taking chances; he’s more than willing to give his receivers opportunities to make plays on those 50-50 balls downfield. While he experienced success at Oregon during his first season there, he too has faced some red zone challenges, occasionally making errant passes in intermediate situations. Yet, he remains a confident passer when targeting the intermediate game—think tight end seams or bang-9 routes.
Looking at where Gabriel might land, I see him as a mid-round pick in the upcoming draft—likely no higher than a late-second round choice. This scenario is crucial for the Dolphins. Tua is locked into a major contract, and having Skylar Thompson stepping in as backup in case of an injury simply isn’t a viable option. Imagine Gabriel as a solid backup who can seamlessly step into the starting role if needed; with playmakers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle at his disposal, he’d have all the tools required to manage games effectively.
So, what makes Gabriel such an intriguing prospect? First and foremost, his accuracy is a standout quality. He shines particularly on short-to-medium throws, similar to Tua’s strength in making quick, decisive passes. Gabriel consistently finds his targets in stride, leading his receivers into space to maximize yards after catch—a vital skill in today’s game. His proficiency with timing routes, including slants, out routes, and quick screens, perfectly aligns with what Miami’s offense demands.
Mobility is another area where Gabriel shines. While he may not be a conventional dual-threat like Lamar Jackson or Jalen Hurts, he possesses the agility needed to maneuver within the pocket and extend plays when necessary. His awareness of pressure and ability to scramble effectively complement his skill set, making him a quarterback who can adapt under duress.
In conclusion, as we look to the future, Dillon Gabriel presents an exciting opportunity for the Dolphins. His talent, experience, and attributes could provide the necessary support for Tua while ensuring the team has a viable plan in place, should the need arise. The intersection of Gabriel’s journey with Miami’s aspirations showcases a potential path that could yield significant benefits for the franchise in the coming years.