Two portal targets that could elevate Oregon defense for a 2026 title run

Oregon lost six defensive backs in the transfer portal but if they land these two, their 2026 secondary could have more lockdown playmaking talent than the group that ranked No. 3 in defensive passing efficiency this season.

Kingston Lopa signed with Tosh Lupoi at California. Dakoda Fields nabbed a new NIL deal from Oklahoma, while Jahlil Florence is bound for Missouri. Meanwhile, the Ducks have set their sights on Minnesota safety Koi Perich and 6-1, 193 Penn State cornerback, a five-star recruit from Phenix City, Alabama.

Harris committed to Georgia in 2023 but transferred to Penn State in 2024. Over two seasons he's started 26 games, totaling 89 tackles, 1 interception and six pass breakups for his career.

Harris size and physical skills make him the No. 6 cornerback in the Transfer Portal. He's down to Missouri, Indiana and Oregon.

Perich, 6-1, 190, is a dynamic returner with good speed as well as a playmaking safety. From Esko, Minnesota, He's started 26 games in two seasons with six interceptions, a Freshman All-American in 2024. He averaged 26.3 yards on 19 kick returns in 2025.

Perich has visited Oregon and Texas Tech, but projections right now have him headed to Lubbock for next season.

For the Ducks, a lot depends on how many of their defensive stars they get to reup after this season. He's a dynamic player who has even taken snaps on offense, rarely coming off the field.

Oregon's incoming freshman class features four elite prospects from the high school ranks, 6-5 safety Jett Washington, cover guy Davon Benjamin, nickelback Xavier Lherisse, and Florida safety Devin Jackson. Those guys are built to play early.