The Indianapolis Colts have three quarterbacks on their roster: Anthony Richardson, Daniel Jones, and Jason Bean. However, they could still select a signal-caller in the 2025 NFL Draft. If the Colts do go that route, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel could be the man.
More than likely, Indianapolis isn’t going to take a quarterback early in the draft. That would signal that they’re giving up on Richardson and moving on. Yes, the Colts could part ways with Richardson in 2026 if he doesn’t vastly improve next season. But they’re committed to him for at least another year.
Again, the Colts won’t select a quarterback within the first two days of the draft. Yet, they could realistically take one on Day 3, which is when Dillion Gabriel is expected to hear his name called.
The Indianapolis Colts Should Take a Chance on Oregon Quarterback Dillon Gabriel
Background
Dillon Gabriel began his college career at the University of Central Florida. He spent three seasons with the Knights, earning a spot on the Second-Team All-AAC in 2020.
Gabriel then transferred to Oklahoma. He was named the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year in 2022. He threw for 3,168 yards and 25 touchdowns that year.
Gabriel was later on the move again, transferring to Oregon. In 2024, his lone season at Oregon, he threw for 3,857 yards and 30 touchdowns. He also completed 72.9 percent of his passes and rushed for seven touchdowns.
For his efforts, Gabriel was a First-Team All-American and was named Big Ten Most Valuable Player. He also finished third in Heisman voting behind Colorado’s Travis Hunter and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty.
In addition, Gabriel led the Ducks to a 13-1 record and a Big Ten championship. Oregon impressively ran through the regular season undefeated before losing to Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.
Why the Colts Should Draft Him
During his year-end press conference, Colts general manager Chris Ballard hinted that the team would add a quarterback to compete with Anthony Richardson. And that’s what the Colts did by signing Daniel Jones to a one-year, $14 million deal this offseason.
It will be interesting to see who wins the Richardson vs. Jones competition. Whoever wins, will be the starter (obviously). The loser will be the primary backup, replacing Joe Flacco, who recently returned to the Cleveland Browns.
Sam Ehlinger was Indy’s third-string quarterback last season. But with him signing with the Denver Broncos this offseason, Jason Bean will take his place. If the Colts draft Dillon Gabriel this year, he could compete with Bean in training camp for that No. 3 spot.
Gabriel is quick, agile, and is one of the most intriguing passers in the 2025 NFL Draft. He also has a high football IQ and can scramble to extend plays.
At 5-foot-11 and 205 pounds, Gabriel is a bit undersized. Yet, other undersized quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, Baker Mayfield, and Kyler Murray have achieved success over the years.
Gabriel’s experience, poise, and accuracy would surely make him a welcomed addition to the Colts’ quarterback room in 2025. He’d make a solid No. 3 quarterback and possible No. 2. Who knows, maybe he’d eventually become the Colts’ starter. Stranger things have happened.
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