The Oregon Ducks have recently concluded their second season as participants in the Big Ten, facing off against the top-ranked Indiana team in the semifinals of the College Football Playoff. Now, the Ducks, under the leadership of Coach Dan Lanning, are actively engaging with the transfer portal while awaiting critical decisions from key players, including their starting quarterback, Dante Moore, in addition to a few other influential members of the team.
Unfortunately for the Ducks, they’ve seen a significant number of players enter the transfer portal, which has resulted in their current position being outside the coveted top-10 in the On3 team transfer portal rankings. Presently, Oregon holds the 18th spot according to On3's evaluation. The team has successfully recruited three four-star transfers but has also seen two depart. Additionally, they’ve welcomed four three-star transfers while witnessing an exodus of 22 players.
Here’s a list of the seven new players joining the Oregon Ducks through the transfer portal:
- Carl Williams, safety
- Michael Bennett, offensive tackle
- Andrew Olesh, tight end
- Koi Perich, safety
- Iverson Hooks, wide receiver
- Dylan Raiola, quarterback
- Keaton Emmett, kicker
Big Ten Teams Lead Transfer Portal Rankings
Among the top 20 teams listed in On3's transfer portal rankings, it’s noteworthy that six are affiliated with the Big Ten. Indiana stands strong at No. 4, followed closely by UCLA at No. 11, Illinois at No. 15, Oregon at No. 16, Wisconsin at No. 17, and Penn State at No. 19. It’s essential to note that the transfer portal will officially close for all players not participating in the national championship game on January 16.
Oregon Ducks Suffer Heavy Losses on Defensive Line
A considerable amount of depth has been lost from the Ducks' defensive line due to player departures in the portal. A significant factor contributing to these exits seems to be the announcement of returnees like outside linebacker Matayo Uiagalelei and defensive tackle A’mauri Washington, both of whom have opted to play another season with Oregon. Additionally, defensive tackle Bear Alexander and outside linebacker Teitum Tuioti have also confirmed their return, prompting numerous backup players on the defensive line to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Among the more notable losses on the defensive line are Tionne Gray and Terrance Green. During his time with the Ducks, Green racked up 23 tackles, one sack, and three pass breakups and possesses two years of eligibility remaining, making him an attractive prospect for potential suitors.
To address the gaps left by Gray and Green, the Ducks are set to rely on incoming freshmen. Five-star defensive lineman Anthony "Tank" Jones is expected to step into a backup role during his freshman year, while in-state recruit Tony Cumberland is anticipated to see some action in his inaugural college season.
Ducks Acquire Prominent Safety via Transfer Portal
One of the most significant additions for the Ducks is the transfer of safety Koi Perich from Minnesota. Notably, Perich is recognized as the No. 1 safety and ranks as the 12th overall player in On3’s transfer portal assessments. Over the course of two impressive seasons at Minnesota, he accumulated a total of 128 tackles, six interceptions, 11 pass breakups, one sack, and 38 punt returns.
With Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman still deliberating over his decision regarding the NFL Draft, the addition of Perich offers the Ducks a valuable layer of security should Thieneman ultimately decide to declare for the draft.
