The Oregon Ducks are reshaping their punt return unit as they look toward the upcoming season.
A Versatile Candidate Emerges
Koi Perich, a standout return specialist from Minnesota, is being tested as a potential punt returner for the Ducks. His experience includes earning All‑Big Ten second‑team honors in 2024 and being named to the preseason Paul Hornung Award watch list, which recognizes the nation’s most versatile player.
During his collegiate career he posted a 23.2‑yard average on kick returns and 8.1 yards per punt return, numbers that helped him earn a reputation for reliability under pressure.
Replacing Departed Options
The team previously leaned on Gary Bryant and Malik Benson to handle returns, but both have moved on, opening the door for new competition.
Special teams coordinator Joe Lorig and assistant Ryan Switzer are overseeing a rotation that also includes Evan Stewart, Dakorien Moore and Jeremiah McClellan, all of whom are being evaluated for their ability to protect the ball and limit penalties.
The ultimate objective for Oregon’s special teams is to secure possession for the offense while maintaining discipline, a focus that drives the ongoing assessment of Perich and his peers.