Why does Dillon Gabriel keep transferring? A look at Oregon star's entire transfer portal journey

Dillon Gabriel has entered the transfer portal twice during his five-year collegiate football career. The Mililani High School product entered the transfer portal after the 2021 season, leaving UCF for Oklahoma University. He also entered the portal after the 2023 season, leaving Oklahoma for Oregon University.

Let's examine Gabriel's consistent moving and transfer portal journey.

Why did Dillon Gabriel leave UCF?

Dillon Gabriel was the UCF starting quarterback for the 2019 and 2020 college football seasons. In 2019, he had 3,653 passing yards, 29 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Then, in 2020, he had 3,570 passing yards, 32 touchdowns and four interceptions. However, he suffered an injury-riddled 2021.

According to Pro Football Network, Gabriel might have left UCF to get a fresh start in an offense he was comfortable with. He elected to join the Oklahoma Sooners due to coach Brent Venables' persuasiveness.

Why did Dillon Gabriel leave Oklahoma?

Gabriel became the starting quarterback as soon as he joined Oklahoma University. He put up consecutive 3,000+ passing yards and 24+ touchdown seasons. However, at the end of the 2023 season, Gabriel entered the transfer portal again.

According to The Oklahoman, the departure of offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby played a role in his decision. When asked about whether he'd have stayed if Lebby remained, he said:

"I'd be lying if I said it didn't have a part in it. If Lebby was still there, then who knows, right? But that's kind of just a guessing game. He's earned it. He's a great coach. His offensive mind is something new and upcoming."

Dillon Gabriel is a projected Round 3 pick

According to NFL Draft Buzz, Gabriel is projected to be picked in round three of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Gabriel's collegiate football numbers are impressive. He enters the 2024 season ranked in the top 10 all-time in career total touchdowns, total yards, passing yards and passing touchdowns. He's projected to be a decent backup at the NFL level and has the potential to stay around for a while.