On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Gary Bryant Jr. participated in practice for the first time since Oct. 15. Bryant's return, genuinely, could not come at a better time as Oregon's star wide receiver Tez Johnson is now sidelined for at least a few weeks after suffering an injury against the Michigan Wolverines in Week 10.
The return of Bryant could be the perfect temporary fix for Johnson's absence. While head coach Dan Lanning hasn't confirmed Bryant's availability for the Ducks' Week 11 game against Maryland, his participation in practice is a great sign.
Gary Bryant Jr. participates, new punt returners: What we saw at Oregon football practice on Tuesdayhttps://t.co/CMcqyToxvJ
— James Crepea (@JamesCrepea) November 5, 2024
Last year, Bryant had 30 receptions for 442 yards and 4 touchdowns for the Ducks – including a 50-yard reception and 1 touchdown against the Liberty Flames in the Fiesta Bowl at the end of the season.
Once Bryant is listed as active, he would join Evan Stewart, Traeshon Holden, and Justius Lowe as the core four receivers on Oregon's roster. While none of the four put up quite the same numbers as Johnson, the combination of the group could be equally elite.
With quarterback Dillon Gabriel slinging the ball, at a 75 percent completion rate, almost any receiver could look like a top-tier player for the Ducks this season.
Bryant's experience, having spent three seasons with the USC Trojans before transferring to Oregon in 2023, is exactly what the Ducks need while Johnson is sidelined. Not to mention that Bryant is a consistent punt and kick returner which was a job usually carried out by Johnson.
Gary Bryant Jr. college career stats
- Receptions: 83
- Receiving yards: 1,087
- Receiving touchdowns: 11
- Punt/kick return attempts: 54
- Return yards: 977
While Johnson's injury was officially ruled as not season-ending, his absence will most likely have an immediate impact on the Oregon passing game. The sooner Bryant can be available for in-game action, the better.