Heading into the college football season, the Oregon Ducks are on the shortlist of contenders to win the National Championship, and for good reason after back-to-back trips to the College Football Playoff. The biggest reason for the Ducks' status as championship contenders is all the star power in the lineup, but that doesn't always push a team over the top.
Where teams go from contenders to champions is when players take that next step to become integral pieces of the team. After spring practices and the start of Fall camp, 5 Oregon players are starting to raise their stock heading into the start of the college football season.
The 5 Oregon Ducks trending in the right direction heading into the Fall
Nasir Wyatt - Edge Rusher
As a true freshman, Nasir Wyatt showed a ton of promise for the Ducks, racking up 3 sacks in a limited role. Given that both Teitum Tuioti and Marston Uiagaleli are back, it won’t be easy to find constant time for Wyatt. Coach Araghi called Wyatt a Swiss Army knife, and that versatility should allow him to play a big role if he takes snaps on the interior as an extra pass rusher or at inside linebacker.
Tommy Tofi - Offensive Line
The Ducks are tasked with replacing a ton of talent on the offensive line, and only bringing one transfer into the fold puts anyone in the mix. When freshman Tommy Tofi arrived in the Spring, he instantly looked the part, and that momentum has carried into the Fall. As the coaching staff looks to find the 5 best offensive linemen, Tommy Tofi may be too talented to keep on the sidelines this season.
Evan Stewart - Wide Receiver
After missing the entire 2025 season with an injury, there were some questions over whether or not Evan Stewart would return to form. When the fans got to see the flashes Stewart showed in the Spring, it was incredibly promising for the offense. All Dan Lanning and the staff have said about Evan Stewart is that it’s been an incredible offseason, and he should be back to dominating for the Ducks.
Marcus Dixon - Tight End
The Ducks have an elite tight end in Jamari Johnson, but depth at the position is key, as it'll allow the coaching staff to run a ton of different multiple tight-end sets. This offseason, Oregon added an elite athlete in Marcus Dixon who played both sides of the ball during his time at Clemson. Dixon was a high-upside bet in the Transfer Portal, but his development will allow him to get on the field behind Johnson.
Jalen Lott - Wide Receiver
The Oregon Ducks couldn't get 5-star wide receiver Jalen Lott on campus until the Summer, making it harder for him to make an impact as a true freshman. Instead, the 5-star wide receiver has shown everyone why he carried that status as a recruit, instantly making plays in his first practice with the Ducks.
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