The Oregon Ducks are gearing up for the 2026 college football season, blending a core of proven veterans with a wave of fresh talent acquired through the transfer portal and the latest recruiting class. Coach Dan Lanning has emphasized continuity while inviting new faces to compete for starting spots.
At the heart of the offense, quarterback Dante Moore is expected to return as the starter, giving the Ducks a familiar arm heading into the new campaign. His presence provides stability, but the coaching staff has also brought in Dylan Raiola from the Nebraska Cornhuskers, who is slated to serve as the primary backup and push Moore for the top spot.
Quarterback Dynamics
Raiola’s arrival adds a competitive edge to the quarterback room, as his experience in the Big Ten could translate into a quicker adjustment to the Pac‑12 style of play. The coaching staff has hinted that both signal‑callers will see extensive reps in spring practice, setting the stage for a clear pecking order by the fall.
The running back corps will be anchored by Jordon Davison, who is working his way back from a broken clavicle sustained last season, and Dierre Hill Jr., whose explosive runs have already drawn praise from teammates. Both players are expected to share carries, with Davison’s recovery progress closely monitored by the medical staff.
At tight end, Jamari Johnson is slated to start, providing a reliable target in the middle of the field. Backup options include Markus Dixon, who has shown flashes of playmaking ability during limited snaps in the previous season.
Weaponry at the Edge
Wide receiver depth will feature Evan Stewart, Dakorien Moore, and Jeremiah McClellan, each bringing a different skill set to the outside. Iverson Hooks is emerging as a leading candidate for the slot position, offering a quick‑release option that could stretch defenses horizontally.
The offensive line will see a mix of returning stalwarts such as Iapani Laloulu and Dave Iuli, alongside new transfer Michael Bennett, who joins from a Power Five program. This blend of experience and fresh talent aims to reinforce a line that faced inconsistency in the previous year.
Overall, the Ducks’ depth chart reflects a deliberate effort to balance proven production with promising newcomers. The coaching staff’s emphasis on competition across every position suggests that the 2026 roster could be one of the most dynamic in recent memory, with the potential to contend for a conference title if health and execution align.