Brent Venables Addresses Dillon Gabriel’s Departure from Oklahoma
Norman, OK – Oklahoma Sooners head football coach Brent Venables recently attempted to clear the air regarding quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s decision to leave the program. Gabriel, who was a pivotal player during his time in Norman, announced his departure from the team earlier this year, sparking questions and speculation among fans and analysts alike.
In a press conference on Friday, Venables directly addressed the rumors swirling around the quarterback’s exit. “I want to make it clear that Dillon’s decision to move on wasn’t about any friction within the program or any dissatisfaction on his end,” Venables said. “He’s a tremendous young man, a great leader, and we fully support his journey.”
Venables emphasized that Gabriel’s departure was more about personal and professional aspirations rather than any issues within the team.
“It’s important to understand that Dillon is at a point in his career where he had to make a decision about what’s best for him moving forward, whether that’s pursuing opportunities at the next level or seeking a different environment to continue his growth as a player.”
The departure of Gabriel, who transferred to Oklahoma from UCF before the 2022 season, came as a surprise to many, especially considering his strong performances under Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby. In his time with the Sooners, Gabriel threw for over 3,500 yards and 25 touchdowns in the 2023 season, helping Oklahoma remain a contender in the Big 12.
“Dillon gave everything to this program, and we’re incredibly proud of what he accomplished here,” Venables added. “He’s always going to be a Sooner in our eyes, and we wish him nothing but the best.”
Speculation initially mounted after the rise of highly touted freshman quarterback Jackson Arnold, leading some to question whether a shift in the Sooners’ quarterback depth chart influenced Gabriel’s decision. However, Venables was quick to dismiss any notion of internal competition driving the move. “Dillon and Jackson have always had a great relationship. This decision wasn’t about competition—it was about Dillon charting his own path.”
Gabriel’s exit marks a significant shift for Oklahoma, as Arnold is now expected to take over the starting role.
The freshman QB is considered one of the top prospects in the nation and will likely be a central figure in Venables’ rebuilding efforts moving into the SEC next season.
Despite the change, Venables remained optimistic about the team’s future. “We’re excited about where we’re headed. We have a lot of talent in that quarterback room, and we’re confident in the direction we’re going.”
Dillon Gabriel has yet to publicly disclose his next steps, whether it involves pursuing professional opportunities or transferring to another program, but Venables’ clarification has seemingly put to rest any speculation of discontent behind the scenes. As the Sooners prepare for their move to the SEC, they will do so with gratitude for Gabriel’s contributions and a fresh outlook on the future.
For Oklahoma fans, Gabriel’s departure closes one chapter, but as Venables highlighted, it opens the door for new leadership and opportunities ahead.
