Are the Dallas Cowboys Targeting Dillon Gabriel in the 2025 NFL Draft?

Cowboys Looking to Add a Young Quarterback

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly looking to draft a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, according to executive vice president Stephen Jones. While the team remains committed to Dak Prescott as its starting quarterback, depth at the position is a growing concern. Both of the Cowboys’ backup quarterbacks, Cooper Rush and Trey Lance, are set to become unrestricted free agents this offseason, leaving Dallas in need of reinforcements.

With that in mind, could Oregon Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel be a good fit for America’s Team?

Dillon Gabriel: A Proven Leader and Heisman Finalist

Dillon Gabriel has been one of the most experienced and consistent quarterbacks in college football. Leading Oregon to an undefeated regular season and a Big Ten Conference Championship, Gabriel cemented himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. A Heisman Trophy finalist, he has displayed the arm talent, decision-making, and leadership qualities necessary to make the transition to the NFL.

While the 2025 draft class features bigger names such as Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, Gabriel’s experience and ability to execute a pro-style offense make him an intriguing prospect.

Stephen Jones Hints at Drafting a Quarterback

Cowboys executive Stephen Jones has already made it clear that Dallas intends to draft a quarterback, though when and where remains uncertain.

“I think one of our goals is to get a young quarterback in the draft,” Jones told The Dallas Morning News. “I don’t know where that’s going to be. That’s why we gave a [fourth-round pick] for Trey. It seems like all the quarterbacks, even guys we have in the fourth round, go in the first. They always go so much higher than what you think.”

Jones’ comments suggest that the Cowboys could be preparing to move on from both Trey Lance and Cooper Rush, making the addition of a young quarterback a priority.

Where Could Gabriel Land in the Draft?

Most NFL draft analysts rank Dillon Gabriel between the No. 6 and No. 8 quarterback prospects in the 2025 class. Projections indicate that he could be selected on late day two (rounds 2-3) or early day three (rounds 4-7).

For Dallas, this range could be the ideal opportunity to add a quarterback without using a premium draft pick. With limited cap space heading into free agency, the draft presents the best chance for the Cowboys to secure a cost-effective, long-term backup—and potentially a future starter.

Gabriel’s Rising Draft Stock

Gabriel has been trending upward following a strong performance at the Senior Bowl, where he impressed scouts with his accuracy and poise under pressure. He now has another opportunity to elevate his draft stock at the NFL Scouting Combine, which takes place in Indianapolis from February 27 to March 2. Quarterback drills will be held on March 1, where Gabriel will have the chance to showcase his skills against other top prospects.

Will the Cowboys Make Their Move?

With the Cowboys eyeing quarterback depth and Gabriel fitting the mold of an experienced, NFL-ready signal-caller, the connection makes sense. However, Dallas will need to decide how aggressively they want to pursue a quarterback and whether Gabriel’s availability aligns with their draft strategy.

If the Cowboys truly believe in their “selectively aggressive” offseason approach, drafting Gabriel could be a smart move—one that secures their quarterback depth for years to come.