As the Oregon Ducks gear up for spring camp, anticipation is building around some key offensive position battles that could shape the team's success this season. With practices set to begin in March and the annual spring game at Autzen Stadium on April 25, let's dive into four pivotal competitions that will be worth watching closely.
Wide Receiver
Ross Douglas faces an intriguing challenge in assembling his starting wide receiver trio. With seasoned players like Evan Stewart, Jeremiah McClellan, and Dakorien Moore returning, each brings valuable starting experience.
Stewart opened 12 games in 2024, while McClellan and Moore contributed significantly in 2025. The question is how to fit these talented players together, as all three have predominantly played on the outside.
Adding to the mix is Iverson Hooks, a standout slot receiver who nearly hit the 1,000-yard mark last season. Hooks' presence might force Douglas to make tough decisions about who fills the two outside spots.
Plus, the arrival of 5-star freshmen Gatlin Bair and Jalen Lott, along with the promising Dillon Gresham, adds depth and complexity to the lineup. It’s a puzzle that will keep fans guessing until it all clicks into place.
Offensive Tackle
With Isaiah World and Alex Harkey headed to the NFL Combine, the Ducks need to solidify their tackle positions. Fox Crader and Gernorris Wilson, both of whom filled in last season, are the frontrunners.
Crader handled left tackle duties, while Wilson took on the right. However, Wilson's recovery from a foot injury adds a layer of uncertainty.
Enter Michael Bennett, a Yale transfer who excelled at right tackle and could transition to guard, and elite recruits Immanuel Iheanacho and Tommy Tofi. Iheanacho, in particular, is a player to watch.
As the highest-rated O-line signee in school history, he could make an immediate impact. The competition, especially between Wilson and Iheanacho, promises to be a highlight of spring camp.
Offensive Guard
Dave Iuli seems set to secure one guard spot, likely on the right side. The left guard position, however, is up for grabs.
Kawika Rogers, with over 300 snaps under his belt, and Michael Bennett, potentially shifting from tackle, are strong contenders. Meanwhile, Douglas Utu and Demetri Manning, both redshirts last year, could surprise as they step into larger roles.
The decision here will likely come down to choosing between experience and raw talent. Rogers and Bennett offer reliability, while Utu's high recruiting pedigree suggests untapped potential. The guard position may be a point of concern, but it also presents an opportunity for someone to step up and shine.
Running Back
While the running back battle might not drastically alter the Ducks' fortunes, it will establish a pecking order. Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr., who combined for over 1,300 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2025, are the primary candidates to replace Noah Whittington as the lead back.
Davison, a traditional between-the-tackles runner, faces a challenge in recovering from a broken collarbone. Hill, known for his dynamic play, might have an edge in spring practice.
The key question is whether Hill can develop into a reliable every-down back, particularly in pass protection. Regardless of who emerges as the starter, the running back position is poised to be a strength for Oregon in 2026.
As spring camp unfolds, these battles will not only determine starting roles but also set the tone for the Ducks' offensive strategy. Keep an eye on how these competitions evolve, as they could be crucial to Oregon's success this season.