The Oregon Ducks are heading down the stretch of what appears to be a lost season for Dan Lanning's program in a year that started with so much promise. With a 4-3 record on the year, the Ducks have already fired offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer and quarterback Dante Moore is out for the season.
Moving forward, the focus is seemingly going to be answering questions ahead of the offseason to help with evaluating the roster. The Ducks are always active in the Transfer Portal, and over the final 5 games, 5 freshmen can help answer questions for Dan Lanning ahead of what could be a hectic offseason.
5 Oregon Freshmen who can ease roster concerns over the final 5 games
Jalen Lott - Wide Receiver
Oregon fans were stuck waiting an extended stretch to see 5-star freshman Jalen Lott in action after an injury in the preseason left him recovering from surgery. After Lott returned for the UCLA and Nebraska games, he was out for the game against Illinois. The Ducks may need to dip into the Transfer Portal to add more weapons this offseason, and it would be great to know just how much Lott is capable of in this offense.
Kendre' Harrison - Tight End
Drew Mehringer's firing does create some concerns over the future of the tight end position for Oregon given how well the group has developed with his coaching. The good news is that even with Jamari Johnson likely headed to the NFL Draft, Oregon has a loaded tight end room behind him. 5-star freshman Kendre Harrison flashed against Portland State, but has been quiet since then, and it would be great to see him step up down the stretch and show he's ready to be the starter next season.
Messiah Hampton - Wide Receiver
The surprise freshman of the season has been wide receiver Messiah Hampton who's stepped up with the injury to Jeremiah McClellan to become a key contributor for the offense. After missing the Illinois game, Hampton appears to be back in the mix for the Northwestern game to help the offense. It'll be nice to see Hampton down the stretch as he continues to get better, as it'll give the staff an idea of if he can be a true WR2 next to Dakorien Moore next season.
Tommy Tofi - Offensive Line
After being one of the stars of the offseason, freshman Tommy Tofi wasn't a part of the starting offensive line to start the season. As of late, Tommy Tofi's reps have only increased, and as he's entered the starting lineup, Oregon may be able to pencil him into the lineup as a starter next season. Oregon's offensive line has been an issue at times this season, and getting Tofi experience will only help to start 2027.
Immanuel Iheanacho - Offensive Tackle
Oregon signed Immanuel Iheanacho as the 2nd ranked offensive tackle in the country, but he hasn't played much, in part due to being a late enrollee. Fox Crader and Gernorris Wilson have helped hold down the tackle positions, but competition only brings the best out of everyone. The staff may opt not to trust the returning offensive linemen like they did last transfer cycle, and it would be great to know if Iheanacho is good enough to pencil into a starting role.
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