An Epochal Open Letter from Dillon Gabriel to the Oregon Ducks Football, Fans, and the Whole Ducks Community
To My Oregon Ducks Family:
As I sit down to write this, I am overcome with gratitude and emotion. It is never simple to put into words what an experience has meant to your heart, but I will do my best to express how I feel deep within my spirit. To the University of Oregon, the football program, my teammates, the coaching staff, and, most importantly, the fans and the entire Ducks community, you have all given me a chapter of my life that I will always treasure.
Transferring to Oregon was a leap of faith, a decision based on faith—in myself, this program, and what we could accomplish together. From the moment I stepped onto the field at Autzen Stadium, I sensed the electricity, energy, and unshakable support that make this place unique. You didn’t just welcome me; you embraced, challenged, and encouraged me in ways that extended far beyond football.
Thank you to Coach Dan Lanning and the entire coaching staff for believing in me and pushing me to become a better quarterback and man. You handed me the keys to this offense, trusted my intuition, and helped me improve every area of my game. Your leadership taught me not only to win, but also to lead with humility, tenacity, and purpose.
To my locker room brothers, thank you for the fraternity. We’ve made relationships that will endure a lifetime. We fought together, sacrificed together, and celebrated each minor win along the way. I learned from each of you, and I hope I can give you as much as you gave me.
To the fans: Oregon has the most passionate and dedicated fanbase in the country. You showed up whether it was raining or not. You packed Autzen, went across the country, and showered social media with love and support. You made me feel like one of your own right away, and that’s something I’ll remember for the rest of my life.
This is not a goodbye. It’s a celebration of our accomplishments and a heartfelt thank you. Being a Duck has meant more than just wearing green and yellow; it has represented a tradition of excellence, tenacity, and unity. We created lasting memories together.
As I embark on the next phase of my life and work, please know that Oregon will always be home. I will always be happy to say, “Once a Duck, always a Duck.”
With thanks, love, and always in wonder of this adventure,
Dillon Gabriel
#GoDucks 💚💛