Oregon Football: 3 most overlooked players heading into 2021

Nov 27, 2020; Corvallis, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Devon Williams (2) runs the ball for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers during the first half at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2020; Corvallis, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Devon Williams (2) runs the ball for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers during the first half at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2021; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks safety Verone McKinley III (23) against the Iowa State Cyclones in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2021; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks safety Verone McKinley III (23) against the Iowa State Cyclones in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Earlier this week, I wrote about Verone McKinley being on the verge of an All-Pac-12 season with Oregon and I truly believe that will be the case.

McKinley began his career at cornerback before making the switch to safety in 2020 and that seemed to be the best move for his career. He tied his career-best in total tackles with 46 in about half the games and he had an interception, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, and an impressive and instinctive fumble recovery that still blows my mind.

The sophomore defensive back looks more comfortable at the safety position and after two productive seasons with the Ducks, I think year three is going to be a special one as he and Steve Stephens IV patrol the safety position effectively.

Although I don’t think he’s going to be the best defensive back on the team (that distinction goes to Mykael Wright), I do believe he’s going to surprise some people.

McKinley is being overlooked by just about everyone heading into 2021.

Game-by-game predictions for 2021 season. dark. Next