Hometown hero Bryce Boettcher is returning for one final season with the Ducks. The veteran linebacker and Eugene native captured the hearts of Oregon fans as he excelled on the field for the team, after walking on to both the football and baseball teams.
On Thursday, Jan. 7, Boettcher shared a message for the team and for the fans, "I'm back."
Unfinished Business. #qqmf 🦆 pic.twitter.com/sHVDjUB7aT
— Bryce Boettcher (@bryce_boettcher) January 8, 2025
Quoting none other than the Oregon women's basketball legend Sabrina Ionescu, Boettcher shared the video montage of his highlights from senior night with the message that he has some unfinished business in Eugene and at Autzen Stadium.
Boettcher first walked onto Oregon's baseball team when he came to college and was selected by the Houston Astros in the 13th round of the 2024 MLB Draft. Now, the dual sport athlete looks to improve his draft stock in a second sport – which he also walked onto for Oregon.
At the end of the regular season, Boettcher brought home the Burlsworth Trophy which is awarded to the greatest football player whose career started as a walk-on.
During his three seasons for the Ducks football team, Boettcher amassed 133 total tackles (65 solo, 68 assisted), 4 pass deflections, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 interception – most of those stats coming in the 2024 season.
Boettcher transformed into a leader both on and off the field for the Oregon football team under the guidance of head coach Dan Lanning who has only ever spoken highly of the linebacker.
At the media days ahead of the Rose Bowl Game, defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi hinted at the fact that the Ducks were trying to appeal for Boettcher to have another season of eligibility since he had only played three seasons of collegiate football.
Boettcher's announcement followed that of senior wide receiver Evan Stewart, who transferred to Oregon in 2024 from Texas A&M.