Oregon Ducks Make Major Waves in Transfer Portal to Build for 2025 Title Run

The Oregon Ducks may have fallen short in the Rose Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes, but the program has wasted no time regrouping for another championship push in 2025. Head coach Dan Lanning and his staff have assembled an elite transfer portal class that has many experts buzzing, including On3 college football insider Steve Wiltfong, who labeled Oregon’s incoming transfers as “by far” the best group in the nation for 2025.

“Oregon has by far the most talented Transfer Portal class coming when looking at the On3 Industry’s average ranking per commit,” Wiltfong noted. “From three terrific OLs, to two Indianapolis-area DBs, to landing the top RB in the portal, Dan Lanning and his staff cleaned up.”

A Star-Studded Transfer Class

The Ducks’ haul includes several standout players poised to make an immediate impact. Among the newcomers are:

• Makhi Hughes (RB, Tulane): Hughes was one of the most productive running backs in the nation last season, amassing 1,401 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns. His ability to find the end zone and power through defenses should provide a significant boost to Oregon’s backfield.
• Emmanuel Pregnon (OL, USC) & Isaiah World (OL, Nevada): These two highly-touted offensive linemen are expected to fortify the Ducks’ line, providing protection for their quarterback and opening lanes for Hughes.
• Malik Benson (WR, Florida State): Benson brings explosiveness to the receiving corps, giving Oregon another weapon in their high-octane offense.
• Bear Alexander (DL, USC): A force in the trenches, Alexander bolsters Oregon’s defensive line with his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield.
• Dillon Thieneman (S, Purdue): Thieneman had a breakout season in 2023 with six interceptions. Lanning praised the safety’s instincts and ability to cover the field, calling him “a really talented player who finds himself around the ball consistently.”
• Theran Johnson (CB, Northwestern): Johnson adds depth and versatility to the secondary, further strengthening the Ducks’ defensive backfield.
• Alex Harkey (OL, Texas State) & Jamari Johnson (TE, Louisville): These additions round out a well-balanced transfer class with the potential to address key needs across the roster.

Departures in the Portal

As with any active offseason, the Ducks have seen their share of outgoing players. Notable departures include safety Tyler Turner (Baylor), quarterback Jaron Keawe Sagapolutele (Cal), and edge rushers Jaxson Jones (Utah) and Emar’rion Winston (Baylor). Additionally, former wide receiver Ryan Pellum remains in the portal following legal troubles stemming from an incident in California.

Building for Another Championship Push

Dan Lanning’s ability to reload through the transfer portal has been a hallmark of his tenure in Eugene. While the Ducks will need time to integrate the new arrivals, the foundation they’ve built — combined with their success on the recruiting trail — positions them as legitimate contenders in 2025.

With an impressive roster and a coaching staff that’s proven it can maximize talent, Oregon fans have every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead. The Ducks aren’t just aiming to compete next season; they’re aiming to win it all.

Stay tuned for updates as the Ducks gear up for another thrilling season in Eugene!