Dillon Gabriel Biography
Dillon Gabriel is an American professional football quarterback who is currently playing for the Cleveland Browns in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his remarkable passing skills and leadership on the field, Gabriel has built a reputation as one of college football's most prolific quarterbacks before entering the NFL. He made waves with his collegiate career at multiple universities including the University of Central Florida (UCF), Oklahoma, and Oregon, where he set several passing records and earned accolades for his performance. His transition to the NFL as a third-round draft pick in 2025 marks the continuation of his promising football journey.
Childhood
Dillon Gabriel was born on December 28, 2000, in Mililani, Hawaii. He grew up in a sports-oriented family deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. Both his parents, Garrett and Dori Gabriel, are ethnic native Hawaiians. His father, Garrett, was an accomplished quarterback at the University of Hawaii during the late 1980s and early 1990s, setting many school records. Dillon was raised in a close-knit family environment, where athleticism and support from his parents strongly influenced his development in football from a young age. He also has siblings who have been part of his family background.
Education
Dillon Gabriel attended Mililani High School in Hawaii, where he excelled in football, earning the title of Gatorade High School Football Player of the Year for Hawaii as a senior after impressive passing yards and touchdowns. He proceeded to the University of Central Florida (UCF) to start his college football career in 2019. Gabriel later transferred to the University of Oklahoma in 2022 and then to the University of Oregon in December 2023. Academically, Dillon maintained a strong record, achieving a 3.43 GPA as a multidisciplinary studies major and continuing his education during his college years while balancing athletics.
Career
Dillon Gabriel began his collegiate playing career at UCF, quickly making a name for himself as a skilled quarterback. After three years at UCF, he transferred to Oklahoma, where he continued to demonstrate his ability by throwing over 3,600 yards and 30 touchdowns in the 2023 season. He transferred again to Oregon, where he made history by playing the most games ever by a Division I quarterback and ranking second all-time in passing yards. His style blends strong throws and athleticism with situational awareness and leadership. In the 2025 NFL Draft, Gabriel was selected in the third round by the Cleveland Browns, where he earned a start early in the season and showed promise by managing the offense effectively.
Family Life
Dillon Gabriel's family has played an integral part in his life and career. He has been in a long-term relationship with his fiancée, Zo Caswell, whom he has known since middle school and who remains a significant support figure. His parents, Garrett and Dori, have been deeply involved in supporting his football career across many states. His father’s experience as a former collegiate quarterback has been a major mentoring influence, while his mother provides emotional stability and encouragement. His family frequently travels to watch his games and celebrate his achievements, emphasizing the strong familial bond that supports his professional journey.
Achievements
Dillon Gabriel's football achievements are notable both at the collegiate and professional levels. He holds multiple NCAA records, including the most games started by a quarterback in Division I football history. Gabriel is among the top quarterbacks historically in passing yards and touchdowns, finishing his college career with over 18,700 passing yards and 189 total touchdowns. He has earned several All-America honors and was a Heisman Trophy finalist. In the NFL, although early in his career, Gabriel has already demonstrated his potential through key performances for the Cleveland Browns.
Controversies
Dillon Gabriel has largely maintained a positive public image, but he faced some criticism in 2025 related to comments made during a preseason interview with the Cleveland Browns. He made a statement distinguishing "entertainers" from "competitors," which some interpreted as a subtle jab at fellow rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Gabriel clarified his comments were not aimed at Sanders, but sports analyst Stephen A. Smith publicly criticized the remarks as ill-advised. Despite the controversy, Gabriel’s focus remains on competing and contributing to his team’s success.
Dillon Gabriel Summary
Dillon Gabriel is a talented and record-setting quarterback whose journey from a Hawaiian family with strong sports roots led him through a distinguished collegiate career to the professional ranks of the NFL. Educated and trained across multiple universities, he has demonstrated resilience, leadership, and consistent performance on the field. Supported by a close family and a stable personal life, Gabriel continues to pursue his dream of football excellence with the Cleveland Browns. His achievements and dedication shine through his career, distinguishing him as a notable athlete with a promising future.