The Ducks have more than just QB talent in the NFL

The Oregon Ducks have sent many prospects to the NFL over the last several years.While Justin Herbert and Bo Nix are stars, and Dillon Gabriel starts for the Browns, other positions are being filled by Pro Ducks. In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Ducks had 10 players get selected. In 2024, the Ducks sent 8 players to the pros. In addition, plenty of other Ducks have made their way to teams as undrafted free agents.

The Class of 2025

Defensive lineman Derrick Harmon was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round this year. So far, he has contributed early, with 13 total tackles and two sacks. The other first-rounder for the Ducks, offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr., is a starter for the Washington Commanders. Conerly Jr.'s PFF stats are not superb, but they look like rookie offensive lineman numbers.

In the second round, the Los Angeles Rams selected tight end Terrance Ferguson. The beloved Duck didn't get to play much to start, but has since become a weapon for the Rams. Over the last two games, Ferguson has seen 3 targets per game, hauling 85 yards and a touchdown. Defensive end Jordan Burch was taken by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round and has 10 total tackles so far. In the same round, the Los Angeles Chargers took defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell, who has had an instant impact on the Chargers' defense with 14 total tackles and a sack.

Running back Jordan James and linebacker Jeffery Bassa were both taken in the 5th round. James, who was taken by the San Francisco 49ers, has yet to see the field due to injury and other factors. Bassa, selected by the Kansas City Chiefs, has gathered 10 total tackles and a forced fumble. The 2025 class was rounded out by Ajani Cornelius and Tez Johnson, who were taken in rounds 6 and 7. Cornelius, the offensive tackle, has yet to play for the Dallas Cowboys. Johnson, on the other hand, has gotten a bigger role with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after multiple injuries to their wide receiver room. In his last 3 games, Johnson has bloomed for 146 yards and two touchdowns.

Recent Ducks Make Impact

Running back Bucky Irving, who was drafted from the Ducks in 2024, has already become an NFL darling. Irving has been sidelined with an injury, but he looked like a star RB before that. Broncos' WR Troy Franklin has been much improved from his rookie season last year, as Denver competes for the top spot in the AFC. Safety Evan Williams is a starter and major contributor for the Green Bay Packers. Star cornerback Christian Gonzalez has had injury concerns to start his career, but he is still that guy.

Penei Sewell is a star offensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, and his brother, Noah Sewell, is surging for the Bears. Former Ducks' star center Jackson Powers-Johnson has had some positional drama with the Las Vegas Raiders, but is still a key player on the offensive line. DE Kayvon Thibodeaux and safety Jevón Holland are balling out for the New York Giants. Juwan Johnson has become a monster TE for the New Orleans Saints, and Deommodore Lenoir is an anchor for the 49ers' defense. LB Troy Dye has been huge for the Los Angeles Chargers, a team that has been plagued by injuries.

Older Ducks Still Kicking

Despite focusing outside the QB position, we can't just not mention Marcus Mariota, who has been a serviceable backup to Jayden Daniels. TE Johnny Mundt and DT Arik Armstead play for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and DeForest Buckner is still a force for the Indianapolis Colts. Mariota and Armstead are the oldest Ducks in the NFL with 11 years of experience. Buckner is right behind them with 10 years. These veterans are a huge accomplishment for the Oregon Ducks, showing the school's talent can translate to long and successful professional careers.