Last Updated on October 22, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova

AJ Dillon is an American professional football running back for the Carolina Panthers in the NFL. Nicknamed “Quadzilla” and “The Quadfather” because of his powerful physique, Dillon is known for his rushing abilities, physical playing style, and charitable activities.
Beyond his football career, many fans want to know more about AJ Dillon’s family, wife, children, parents, and siblings.
Born on May 2, 1998, in Baltimore, Maryland, Dillon grew up in New London, Connecticut, where he was raised primarily by his mother, Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell.
In his personal life, AJ Dillon is married to Gabrielle Toonen Dillon, a social media personality and lifestyle content creator. The couple married in June 2022 and have two children: a son named Algiers “Trey” Dillon III and a daughter named Blair.
Who Is AJ Dillon’s Wife?
AJ Dillon’s wife is Gabrielle Toonen Dillon, commonly known as Gabrielle Dillon. She is a Wisconsin native, former college student-athlete, lifestyle content creator, and philanthropist.
Gabrielle grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and attended Ashwaubenon High School.
She initially attended DePaul University before transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science.
Before becoming a content creator, Gabrielle participated in competitive gymnastics for approximately ten years and later pursued pole vaulting.
She is particularly interested in cooking, photography, travel, family activities, and supporting charitable initiatives.
Gabrielle and AJ frequently collaborate on lifestyle content and philanthropic projects.
How Did AJ Dillon Meet Gabrielle Toonen?
AJ Dillon and Gabrielle Toonen met in 2020, shortly after Dillon joined the Green Bay Packers.
Gabrielle had returned to Wisconsin during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating an opportunity for the two to meet.
As their relationship developed, Gabrielle introduced AJ to Door County, a popular vacation destination in northeastern Wisconsin.
Her family owned a vacation property in the area, and the couple began spending time there together.
Dillon quickly developed a strong affection for Door County, appreciating its peaceful surroundings, restaurants, and welcoming community.
The destination eventually became an important part of their relationship.
When Did AJ Dillon and Gabrielle Get Married?
AJ Dillon married Gabrielle Toonen on June 25, 2022, in Door County, Wisconsin.
The wedding took place at Gabrielle’s family’s property overlooking the water.
The couple chose Door County because of its sentimental importance to their relationship.
They had previously become engaged at the same family property.
Following their wedding, Gabrielle began publicly using the name Gabrielle Dillon.
Their marriage has remained a visible part of Dillon’s personal life, with the couple frequently appearing together at community events and charitable activities.
What Does Gabrielle Dillon Do for a Living?
Gabrielle Dillon is a lifestyle blogger, social media content creator, and philanthropist.
She shares content about food, cooking, family life, travel, and personal experiences.
Alongside her husband, she operates a food-focused social media project called Dining With the Dillons.
The project features restaurant reviews, family recipes, and food recommendations from locations including Green Bay, Door County, Philadelphia, and other places they visit.
Gabrielle also helps manage the Dillon Family Foundation, which supports families and addresses food insecurity.
Her activities combine social media entrepreneurship with community service and motherhood.
Does AJ Dillon Have Children?
Yes. AJ Dillon and his wife Gabrielle have two children: a son named Algiers “Trey” Dillon III and a daughter named Blair Dillon.
The couple welcomed their first child in May 2023 and announced the arrival of their second child in August 2026.
Fatherhood has become an important part of Dillon’s personal life and has influenced his interests outside professional football.
AJ Dillon’s Son: Algiers “Trey” Dillon III
Algiers Dillon III, nicknamed Trey, is AJ Dillon’s first child.
He was born on May 2, 2023, sharing the same birthday as his father.
The shared birthday became a special family milestone when Dillon and Gabrielle announced their son’s arrival.
The couple revealed the news through a joint social media announcement shortly after his birth.
Trey’s name continues a family naming tradition, as AJ Dillon’s full birth name is Algiers Jameal William Dillon Jr.
His son’s nickname, Trey, refers to the third generation carrying the Algiers Dillon name.
Following Trey’s birth, Dillon spoke publicly about how becoming a father influenced his perspective on life and legacy.
He explained that he wanted to create something meaningful that he could share with his son as he grew older.
This motivation helped inspire his children’s book, Quadzilla Finds His Footing, published in July 2023.
AJ Dillon’s Daughter: Blair Dillon
Blair Dillon is AJ Dillon and Gabrielle Dillon’s second child and first daughter.
The couple publicly announced her arrival on August 13, 2026, through a joint Instagram post.
The announcement included a photograph of their newborn daughter wrapped in a white blanket, alongside a personalized sign displaying her name.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported the announcement on August 14, 2026.
Blair’s arrival expanded the Dillon family to four members.
Earlier in 2026, AJ and Gabrielle had shared that they were expecting a baby girl.
During an August preseason game with the Carolina Panthers, Dillon celebrated a touchdown by rocking the football like a baby, reflecting his excitement about the approaching birth.
How Many Kids Does AJ Dillon Have?
As of now, AJ Dillon has two publicly confirmed children.
- Algiers “Trey” Dillon III: Son, born May 2, 2023.
- Blair Dillon: Daughter, whose arrival was announced in August 2026.
Who Are AJ Dillon’s Parents?
AJ Dillon’s mother is Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell. Some secondary biographies identify his biological father as Jameal Dillon, although reliable reporting provides limited information about his father’s personal life.
Dillon was primarily raised by his mother in New London, Connecticut.
His upbringing was shaped by his mother’s determination, educational achievements, and strong work ethic.
His stepfather, Charles Campbell, also became part of his family during his childhood.
AJ Dillon’s Mother: Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell
Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell, also known as Jessyca Campbell, is AJ Dillon’s mother and one of the most influential people in his life.
She became a mother at approximately 20 years old and raised AJ as a single parent during much of his childhood.
Jessyca worked several jobs while pursuing her education, including employment as a teacher and in service-related positions.
Despite financial and personal challenges, she remained committed to providing her son with educational and athletic opportunities.
She eventually earned a master’s degree and established herself as an educator.
According to an NFL.com profile published before the 2020 NFL Draft, Dillon praised his mother for working multiple jobs, continuing her education, and becoming a respected teacher.
She also played an unusually active role in his early football development.
Jessyca helped AJ practice throwing footballs, understand offensive formations, and develop disciplined training habits.
She encouraged him to take responsibility for his goals and demonstrate consistent effort.
Her dedication became an important part of Dillon’s path to professional football.
AJ Dillon’s Father: Who Is His Biological Dad?
Some secondary biographical websites identify Jameal Dillon as AJ Dillon’s biological father.
However, detailed information about his father has not been independently established through major NFL interviews or official team biographies.
Reliable reporting consistently emphasizes that Dillon grew up primarily under the care of his mother, Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell.
Rather than focusing on his father’s personal circumstances, Dillon has frequently spoken about his mother’s sacrifices and the influence of his extended family.
Therefore, details about his biological father’s background should be treated cautiously unless supported by additional reliable reporting.
AJ Dillon’s Stepfather: Charles Campbell
Charles Campbell is AJ Dillon’s stepfather.
According to a Bleacher Report profile, Jessyca married Charles when AJ was approximately 12 years old.
Charles subsequently became part of Dillon’s family during his teenage years.
The NFL reported that AJ’s mother, stepfather, and younger sister planned to celebrate his selection in the 2020 NFL Draft together, even though he could not be physically present with them because of pandemic restrictions.
Although Charles has generally maintained a private life, his involvement in the family is documented in reporting about Dillon’s upbringing.
Does AJ Dillon Have Siblings?
Yes. AJ Dillon has a younger sister.
He was an only child for approximately the first 13 years of his life before his sister was born.
Unlike AJ, his sister has largely remained outside the public spotlight.
Her name has not been reliably established in major sports reporting.
Who Is AJ Dillon’s Younger Sister?
AJ Dillon’s younger sister has appeared in several stories about his close family relationships.
One particularly memorable example was reported by the Green Bay Packers’ official website in 2020.
During a recruiting visit to Boston College, Dillon’s younger sister became tired while the family was touring Fenway Park.
Rather than leaving her behind or interrupting the family visit, AJ carried his sister in his arms for approximately 45 minutes while she slept.
The moment impressed Boston College assistant coach Brian White, who later recalled Dillon’s thoughtfulness and strong family values.
Additional reporting from NFL.com confirmed that his younger sister was part of the family group supporting him during the 2020 NFL Draft.
Does AJ Dillon Have a Brother?
As of now, AJ Dillon has no publicly confirmed brother.
His younger sister is his only sibling clearly documented in major sports reporting.
However, because information about his siblings is limited, it would be inappropriate to make unsupported claims about other possible family relationships.
AJ Dillon’s Grandfather: Thom Gatewood
Another notable member of AJ Dillon’s family is his maternal grandfather, Thom Gatewood.
Gatewood was an accomplished college football player at the University of Notre Dame.
He earned All-American recognition and became the first African American captain in Notre Dame football history.
He was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Gatewood’s football experience gave him a special connection with his grandson.
During AJ’s college career at Boston College, the two regularly communicated about football strategy, opponents, and performance.
Dillon has credited his grandfather as an important source of advice and encouragement.
Their relationship helped connect his professional ambitions to a family history of athletic achievement.
AJ Dillon and Gabrielle Dillon’s Family Foundation
AJ Dillon and his wife established the Dillon Family Foundation in July 2024.
The foundation focuses on supporting families, addressing food insecurity, and providing children with opportunities to succeed.
According to the couple, becoming parents strengthened their commitment to helping families facing difficult circumstances.
Through charitable partnerships, fundraising activities, and community events, the Dillons have worked to support children and families, particularly in northeastern Wisconsin.
Despite Dillon’s moves between NFL teams, the family has continued maintaining close connections with Green Bay and Door County.
Their shared philanthropic activities have become an important part of their life together.
AJ Dillon Family Facts
| Family Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Algiers Jameal William Dillon Jr. |
| Date of Birth | May 2, 1998 |
| Birthplace | Baltimore, Maryland, USA |
| Wife | Gabrielle Toonen Dillon |
| Wedding Date | June 25, 2022 |
| Children | Two |
| Son | Algiers “Trey” Dillon III |
| Daughter | Blair Dillon |
| Mother | Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell |
| Biological Father | Reported as Jameal Dillon; limited independently verified information |
| Stepfather | Charles Campbell |
| Siblings | One publicly documented younger sister |
| Maternal Grandfather | Thom Gatewood |
| Profession | Professional Football Player |
| Position | Running Back |
| Current Team | Carolina Panthers |
| College | Boston College |
Frequently Asked Questions About AJ Dillon’s Family
Who is AJ Dillon’s girlfriend?
AJ Dillon is married to his former girlfriend, Gabrielle Toonen. The couple met in 2020 and married on June 25, 2022.
Who is AJ Dillon’s wife?
AJ Dillon’s wife is Gabrielle Toonen Dillon, a Wisconsin-born lifestyle content creator and philanthropist.
When did AJ Dillon get married?
AJ Dillon married Gabrielle Toonen on June 25, 2022, in Door County, Wisconsin.
Does AJ Dillon have children?
Yes. AJ Dillon has two children with his wife Gabrielle: a son named Algiers “Trey” Dillon III and a daughter named Blair Dillon.
Who is AJ Dillon’s son?
AJ Dillon’s son is Algiers “Trey” Dillon III, born on May 2, 2023. He shares the same birthday as his father.
Who is AJ Dillon’s daughter?
AJ Dillon’s daughter is Blair Dillon. Her birth was publicly announced in August 2026.
Who is AJ Dillon’s mother?
AJ Dillon’s mother is Jessyca Gatewood-Campbell, an educator who raised him primarily as a single parent in New London, Connecticut.
Who is AJ Dillon’s father?
Some secondary biographies identify his biological father as Jameal Dillon. However, reliable public information about his father is limited. His stepfather is Charles Campbell.
Does AJ Dillon have siblings?
Yes. AJ Dillon has a younger sister whose name has not been widely publicized. No brother has been reliably confirmed.
Who is AJ Dillon’s grandfather?
AJ Dillon’s maternal grandfather is Thom Gatewood, a former Notre Dame All-American football player and College Football Hall of Fame inductee.
What is the Dillon Family Foundation?
The Dillon Family Foundation is a charitable initiative established by AJ Dillon and his wife Gabrielle in 2024 to support families, combat food insecurity, and create opportunities for children.

Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
