The Raiola brothers are taking their backyard chemistry to the big stage - and Autzen Stadium could be the next playground.
Dayton Raiola, younger brother of Oregon quarterback Dylan Raiola, has officially committed to the Ducks. The younger Raiola is a three-star prospect out of Buford, Georgia, and while he played quarterback in high school, Oregon’s staff sees his future on the other end of the passing game - at tight end.
At 6'1" and 205 pounds, Dayton brings a unique skill set to the position, blending quarterback instincts with the physicality needed to thrive in the Pac-12 trenches. He’s currently ranked as the No. 128 athlete in the Class of 2026, per 247Sports.
For the Ducks, this isn’t just a family reunion - it’s another key piece in what’s shaping up to be one of the top recruiting hauls in the country. Oregon’s 2026 class now sits at No. 3 nationally with 23 commits, and Dayton adds both versatility and a strong football pedigree to the mix.
Speaking of pedigree, Dylan Raiola - the former five-star and No. 2 quarterback in the Class of 2024 - made headlines of his own this offseason when he transferred to Oregon from Nebraska. After two years as the starter in Lincoln, he’s now set to back up Dante Moore in 2026, with an eye toward taking over the reins in 2027 as a redshirt sophomore.
And that’s where things get interesting. Whether it’s in a late-game blowout or a more meaningful moment down the line, the door is now open for the Raiola brothers to share the field in Eugene. One throwing, one catching - a connection that started in the backyard and now has a chance to shine under the lights.
It’s rare to see quarterback-tight end duos with this kind of built-in chemistry, and Oregon might just be tapping into something special. With Dylan’s arm talent and Dayton’s developing skill set, the Ducks are betting on more than just bloodlines - they’re investing in a dynamic pairing that could pay dividends in the years to come.