Dillon Gabriel is more likely than not set to become the starting quarterback for the Oregon Ducks after transferring to Eugene from the Oklahoma Sooners program.
On Tuesday morning, ESPN released its rankings for the top ten quarterbacks in the nation ahead of teams’ spring games.
Gabriel earned the No. 2 spot on ESPN’s list, only behind Georgia Bulldogs returning quarterback Carson Beck.
Over two seasons at Oklahoma, Gabriel had 496 completions for 6,828 yards and 55 touchdowns through the air. He also accounted for 688 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground for the Sooners.
Before playing in Norman, Gabriel started his collegiate career at UCF where he played three seasons for the Golden Knights.
Gabriel will be one of the most experienced quarterbacks in NCAA DI football during the 2024 season and is set to become a star for the Ducks.
Oregon and head coach Dan Lanning are used to transfers becoming standout players for their program.
Just take Bo Nix for an example, who set the single-season completion percentage record by a Division I quarterback while playing for the Ducks.
Gabriel spoke to the media for the first time after an Oregon practice on Tuesday.
“That competition is you versus you, and at the end of the day, the best players will play,” Gabriel said. “I'm just doing my part. I've definitely had talks with Bo with… Just little conversations here and there. I think that's what's really cool about Oregon. You've got access to a bunch of guys who've done it and who are going to go do it at the NFL.”
Oregon’s spring game is set for April 27 in Autzen Stadium. Fans will finally be able to see Gabriel, and fellow Duck quarterback Dante Moore, suit up in an Oregon uniform.