Projecting Who's Staying and Who's Leaving from Oregon After Bowl Game

As the chase for a 2025 national title ends in a 56-22 loss to Indiana in the College Football Playoff, Oregon is reflecting on a season of progress.

But right now, it's going to hurt.

Last year, the undefeated, top-ranked Ducks quickly fell behind Ohio State and lost their CFP opener—the Rose Bowl—in a blowout. Then in 2025, they defeated James Madison and Texas Tech to reach the Playoff semifinals, where Indiana handed UO another lopsided defeat.

Perspective, especially now, is imperative.

While the hope of a first-ever championship is dashed, Oregon has reached the CFP in two straight years and improved on last season's result.

Given the resources, talent and coaching staff in place, it's only logical to aim higher. Oregon will use the upcoming offseason to prepare for another charge to the CFP in 2026—and ideally stick around longer.

Who's Staying

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Dakorien Moore

Promising Backfield

When the Ducks landed star Tulane transfer Makhi Hughes, they intended to pair him with Noah Whittington. Instead, they saw freshmen backs Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. carve out notable roles. They combined to surpass 1,200 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns during the Ducks' lengthy run.

Intriguing Receiving Corps

One unfortunate part of 2025 is how injuries stung Oregon's top wideouts. Knee injuries shelved Evan Stewart for the whole season and key freshman Dakorien Moore for about half of the year. Stewart could turn pro, but he should stay in college and give Oregon an exciting duo at receiver. The late emergence from Jeremiah McClellan and tight end Jamari Johnson only builds on that optimism.

Young Secondary

There are several huge departures on defense, and we'll cover them in a moment. But as the Ducks retool the unit, they're in good hands. Not only has All-Big Ten defensive tackle Bear Alexander already said he will return in 2026, two freshmen—All-Big Ten cornerback Brandon Finney Jr. and safety Aaron Flowers—emerged as vital pieces of the defense.

Who's Leaving

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Dante Moore

QB Dante Moore

Especially in what's considered a relatively weak cycle at quarterback, Dante Moore may be a top-three pick in the 2026 NFL draft. No matter if that happens, the point is Moore has plenty of fans in NFL scouting departments. He's unlikely to stay in Eugene for another year, though the Peach Bowl debacle and Oregon's NIL resources are at least reasons to pause.

And a Whole Lot More Offense

Top running back Noah Whittington and receiver Malik Benson are out of eligibility, and tight end Kenyon Sadiq is a coveted NFL prospect. Three linemen—Isaiah World, Alex Harkey and Emmanuel Pregnon—are seniors, and both Pancho Laloulu and Dave Iuli may test those professional waters, too. Oregon could be facing a significant rebuild on offense.

Defensive Leaders

We know standout linebacker Bryce Boettcher is gone due to eligibility, along with standout nickel Jadon Canady. Oregon, however, will probably need to replace this crew of NFL-caliber underclassmen: edge-rushers Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti, defensive tackle A'Mauri Washington and safety Dillon Thieneman.

Who's on the Way

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Quartet of 5-Stars

No, don't expect a group of incoming true freshmen to immediately replace the production and impact of veterans. But as the Ducks lose an All-Big Ten selection on the offensive line, at tight end and on the edge, they're bringing in 5-stars at each position with Immanuel Iheanacho, Kendre Harrison and Anthony Jones, respectively—plus receiver Jalen Lott.

No. 3 Recruiting Class

As if that's not enough, Oregon inked five additional top-100 prospects among 12 total 4-stars. Those top-100 players are safety Jett Washington (36th), corner Davon Benjamin (47th), defensive lineman Tony Cumberland (57th), safety Devin Jackson (63rd) and offensive lineman Tommy Tofi (80th).

Big-Name Transfers

No, we don't actually have any of the names. But there's absolutely no doubt the Ducks are active in the portal, which opened on Jan. 2. It's safe to say Oregon will plug a few needs with top-rated transfers, as usual.