“You can't make a guy stay”: When Oklahoma HC Brent Venables dropped a bold remark on Dillon Gabriel’s exit

Following a strong outing in the 2023 college football season, Dillon Gabriel transferred from Oklahoma. This went against the expectations of him entering the 2024 NFL draft.

Gabriel was crucial to Brent Venables’ first winning season in Norman in 2023 following his disappointing first season in charge. The quarterback threw for 3,660 yards and 30 touchdowns in 12 games as the Sooners finished the regular season with a 10-2 record (eventually ending at 10-3).

Following the inconsistencies around the quarterback situation at Oklahoma in the 2024 season, Brent Venables cleared up the narrative on Dillon Gabriel’s decision to transfer to Oregon ahead of the Sooners’ Week 5 game against Auburn.

"You can't make a guy stay," Venables said in his media availability session. "The guy is trying to find the next thing; the next chapter for him.

“I'm sure there was probably some disappointment that (Gabriel) wasn't more highly thought of in the NFL. He had an amazing year. He was a fantastic quarterback. But we didn't run anybody off or things like that.”

Dillon Gabriel’s response to Brent Venable’s comment

Dillon Gabriel had no problem settling in at Oregon. The quarterback was playing his sixth year in college football, showcasing his level of experience and familiarity with the landscape.

On the same day Brent Venables commented about his transfer from Oklahoma, Dillon Gabriel was questioned about it at Oregon. The Mililani, Hawaii, native had a subtle response to Venable's view on his transfer decision while also discussing his relationship with the Sooners.

"Honestly it's so far gone," Gabriel said. "I just know God's got me right where I need to be. I've got a smile on my face every day because I'm in Eugene, Oregon, around a bunch of great guys. Of course, those are guys that are my brothers for life and guys I've played with.

“Like I said, it's people I still talk to on the team, players-wise. You focus on what you can control and that's right where I'm at. Like I said, I'm happy. I know God put me right where I need to be and I think that's all that needs to be said, honestly."

Dillon Gabriel had a successful season at Oregon, which played its first season in the Big Ten. The quarterback led the Ducks to the conference championship undefeated, throwing for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns. He was a Heisman Trophy finalist while Oregon got the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff.