Dillon Gabriel: The Potential Dolphins QB Who Could Shine Under McDaniel
As the NFL Draft approaches and teams assess their quarterback prospects for the future, one name that stands out is Dillon Gabriel. After diving into his film from this past season, it’s clear that he possesses the traits that could make him a starting caliber quarterback—particularly for a team like the Miami Dolphins. While this is purely a prediction, the fit between Gabriel and Miami’s offensive scheme under head coach Mike McDaniel seems promising.
The Dolphins could greatly benefit from selecting Gabriel in the 2025 NFL Draft. Given his skills and experience, he may very well be ready to step in and contribute significant playing time, should the opportunity arise.
Comparing Dillon Gabriel and Tua Tagovailoa
I’ve been a staunch supporter of Tua Tagovailoa since his days at Alabama. There’s no denying his efficiency and effectiveness in Miami’s dynamic offense. However, any solid team needs a backup plan, especially if they want to ensure continuity in the event of an injury. Gabriel, who has played five collegiate seasons across three teams—UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon—aligns closely with some of the attributes that make Tua successful.
Both Gabriel and Tua are left-handed quarterbacks with quick releases and an aggressive approach to challenging defenses with 50-50 balls. Gabriel had a notable season with Oregon, but like Tua, he does have areas in his game that need polishing, such as limiting crucial mistakes in the red zone and improving accuracy on intermediate throws.
One of Gabriel’s strengths is his confidence in throwing to the intermediate field, particularly with tight end seams and bang-9 routes. This willingness to make risky throws could translate well into Miami’s offensive style, which emphasizes playmakers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Gabriel’s Draft Prospects
While analysis suggests that Gabriel could land no higher than a late second-round pick, this presents an intriguing scenario for Miami. It’s tough to imagine Tua Tagovailoa going down with an injury and relying solely on Skylar Thompson to take the helm. Bringing in Gabriel could not only provide essential depth but also spark healthy competition.
With Tua’s recent massive contract extension, starting right away may not be in the cards for Gabriel. Nonetheless, having a seasoned quarterback with five years of collegiate experience could provide Miami with a viable game manager who understands how to leverage an offense full of explosive talent.
Why Gabriel Stands Out in the 2025 QB Class
Gabriel is making waves as a top quarterback prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, thanks to two standout traits: accuracy and mobility. His precision on short-to-medium throws positions him well at the next level. He shares Tua’s knack for quick, decisive throws that are crucial for rhythm in the offense. Gabriel routinely demonstrates the ability to place the ball right where only his target can make the catch, setting them up perfectly to make plays after the reception.
Moreover, Gabriel’s athleticism shouldn’t be overlooked. While he may not fit the dual-threat mold of quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson or Jalen Hurts, Gabriel has shown that he can extend plays effectively. His agility allows him to maneuver within the pocket and avoid pressure, adding a layer of versatility to his game.
In a league where the right fit can transform a rookie’s trajectory, Dillon Gabriel is a name to keep an eye on. Miami could find a reliable option in the 2025 NFL Draft, ensuring they have the depth and skill set necessary to contend in the competitive AFC landscape. The future is bright as teams like the Dolphins begin to solidify their quarterback position for years to come.
