Oregon’s Dan Lanning gives ‘awesome’ take on Dillon Gabriel making 1st NFL start
Oregon's Dan Lanning excited for Dillon Gabriel's first NFL start with Cleveland Browns, praises QB's dedication and hard work.
Oregon football coach Dan Lanning recently praised former quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who has stayed connected with the Ducks while preparing for his first NFL start with the Cleveland Browns.
Dan Lanning didn't hold back his excitement when Gabriel earned the starting job. “I'm excited for Dillon,” Lanning said of Gabriel on Wednesday during a press conference, per Barkley Truax on On3. “He's a guy that works extremely hard, and I know he won't take it for granted. He still has done an unbelievable job of staying connected with our players here. Pretty awesome for a guy that's moved on in the next phase of his life, that still touches base with our team. But I'm excited for him, excited for his opportunity. I know he'll make the absolute best of it.”
Gabriel replaces veteran Joe Flacco as the Browns' starter heading into Week 5 against the Minnesota Vikings in London. Cleveland made the change after Flacco struggled through three games, throwing six interceptions against just two touchdowns during the team's 1-3 start.
After his extraordinary last season at Oregon, the Browns chose Gabriel in the third round of April's draft. In the year 2024, he passed for 3,857 yards and 30 touchdowns, completing 72.9 percent of his throws. He also added a further 149 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns with the Ducks finishing 13-1 and in the College Football Playoff.
Dan Lanning watched Gabriel's growth
Gabriel's path to the starting role wasn't guaranteed. Cleveland's quarterback room was crowded after the draft, with Kenny Pickett initially on the roster and Deshaun Watson sidelined. The team also drafted Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round, creating competition. Training camp ended with Flacco winning the job, Gabriel backing him up, and Sanders third on the depth chart.
Now Gabriel and Flacco have swapped positions. His first start comes in London, adding a unique atmosphere to his NFL debut. Gabriel's six-season college career at UCF, Oklahoma, and Oregon resulted in 18,722 passing yards and 155 touchdowns, ranking second in FBS history for career touchdown passes.
Lanning's words are real, and they show Gabriel's character and commitment to maintaining relationships even after moving to the NFL. Those traits and his on-field ability can drive Cleveland's hope for improved offensive production.
Saints GM Mickey Loomis Faces Cancer Battle, Shares How Team’s Success Keeps Him Strong
In an emotional announcement, New Orleans Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis has shared that he is battling cancer. As the driving force behind the Saints’ rise to prominence in the NFL, Loomis has helped transform the franchise into a perennial contender, bringing the team its first Super Bowl victory in 2009. Despite facing a personal health challenge, Loomis remains deeply focused on the team, drawing strength from their continued success.
Loomis, who has been with the Saints since 2000, has played an instrumental role in building the team’s roster and overseeing its operations. Under his leadership, the Saints have remained competitive year after year, and his strategic moves in the draft and free agency have helped keep the team in the championship hunt. Loomis is widely respected across the NFL for his savvy decisions and commitment to the team’s long-term success.
As he faces his health struggles, Loomis continues to find inspiration and strength in the Saints’ victories. "Every win we achieve in New Orleans serves as a reminder of what we’re capable of as a team," Loomis said in his statement. "It keeps me focused and reminds me that I have something to keep fighting for. The spirit of this team and the support of our incredible fans fuel me every day."
The Saints’ fan base has rallied around Loomis in the wake of his diagnosis, offering their prayers and support. Fans, players, and staff alike have expressed admiration for his leadership and resilience during this difficult time. Loomis’s personal fight has galvanized the team, serving as a reminder of the strength and determination that defines the Saints organization.
As the Saints continue to pursue success on the field, Loomis’s battle with cancer stands as a testament to the spirit of perseverance that defines the team. His dedication to the franchise, even in the face of adversity, continues to inspire the entire Saints community.
