The Oregon Ducks wrapped up their 2026 recruiting class on National Signing Day, and it’s clear the defense was a major point of emphasis. With 13 defensive signees in the class of 22, newly promoted defensive coordinator Chris Hampton-formerly the Ducks’ defensive backs coach-played a central role in shaping the future of Oregon’s defense. Hampton didn’t just oversee the process; he was hands-on, especially in the secondary, where he helped land six defensive backs, including a headliner in five-star safety Jett Washington.
Let’s break down the defensive haul, position by position, with Hampton’s insights giving us a look at what each player brings to the table-and what Oregon fans can expect from this group moving forward.
Secondary: Speed, Smarts, and Swagger
CB Azel Banag
Banag is the kind of player who checks a lot of boxes: high football IQ, physicality, and versatility.
Originally committed to Harvard, Banag brings elite academics to match his on-field toughness. He’s a violent hitter with the speed to match, and Hampton noted his positional flexibility-a big plus in today’s evolving defenses.
He’s enrolling early, which gives him a head start in spring ball. Bonus trivia: Hampton once taught Banag’s father how to drive back in college.
Small world.
**DB Davon Benjamin Jr. **
A long-time Oregon target, Benjamin feels like he’s been part of the program for years. The Oaks Christian product (yes, the same school as Kayvon Thibodeaux) is a playmaker in every sense-whether it’s at receiver, defensive back, or on special teams.
He’s scored touchdowns in just about every way possible. Dynamic is the right word here.
DB Devin Jackson
Jackson already looks like he belongs in a college weight room.
At over 200 pounds and standing 6'2", he's got the physical tools to make an immediate impact. Hampton highlighted his range and ball skills, which were on full display during the 7-on-7 circuit this summer.
If you’re looking for a safety with a high ceiling and NFL traits, Jackson fits the mold.
DB Xavier Lherisse
Lherisse is an athlete, plain and simple.
He played quarterback for his high school team this year, but it’s his instincts and balance in the secondary that stand out. He’s also got family ties to the game-he’s Brandon Dorlus’ cousin, and his father trained NFL prospects for the combine.
That kind of background doesn’t guarantee success, but it sure doesn’t hurt.
CB Trevon Watson
Watson brings experience to the room, coming in from San Mateo Junior College.
Originally from Sacramento, he’s got the edge and grit you want in a nickel corner. Hampton compared him to Jadon Canady, praising his toughness, competitiveness, and ball skills.
He may not be the biggest guy on the field, but he plays like he is.
S Jett Washington
Every class has a unicorn, and for Oregon, it’s Jett Washington.
At 6'5.5" and 219 pounds, he’s got a rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism. He’s the nephew of Kobe Bryant and the son of a former NFL running back, and he plays like someone who’s been training for greatness his whole life.
A violent hitter with elite ball skills and basketball-level agility, Washington is the kind of player who can anchor a defense for years.
Defensive Line: Power, Depth, and Playmakers
DL Tony Cumberland
Cumberland was one of the earliest commits in the class and has taken a winding path-starting in Ohio, then Arizona, and finishing high school in Oregon.
He was the top-rated player in the state and brings immediate-impact potential. Hampton emphasized how often Cumberland has been around the program already, which should help him hit the ground running.
DL Anthony Jones
Yes, there are two Anthony Joneses in this class.
This one-signed on National Signing Day-is a big-bodied interior lineman who tips the scales at over 300 pounds. He’s been a regular at Oregon camps and brings a nasty streak to the trenches.
Hampton didn’t mince words: “He’ll rip your face off.” That’s a tone-setter.
EDGE Dutch Horisk
Horisk comes from powerhouse St.
John Bosco, the same school that produced Oregon’s Matayo Uiagalelei. He’s a high-motor pass rusher who can play with his hand in the dirt or standing up.
Hampton called him a “ball junkie,” the type of guy who lives in the film room and the weight room. Expect him to find a role early as a situational pass rusher.
EDGE Anthony “Tank” Jones
The second Anthony Jones in the class goes by “Tank,” and it fits.
He’s the No. 1 player in Alabama and one of the top defensive linemen in the country. Physically, he already looks like he belongs in the SEC, and Hampton believes he can be an instant-impact player.
Oregon’s staff is clearly expecting him to contribute right away.
EDGE Prince Tavizon
Tavizon reclassified from the 2027 class to 2026, and that tells you a lot about his maturity and readiness.
Out of Lincoln High in San Diego (same school as Akili Smith), Tavizon brings versatility and edge-rushing potential. He’s long, physical, and already plays with the kind of violence you want off the edge.
Linebackers: Leadership and Physicality
LB Braylon Hodge
Hodge comes from Cherry Creek in Colorado and has been one of the fastest risers in the class.
He impressed on the combine circuit and continues to get better year after year. With strong tackling ability, fluid movement, and elite communication skills, he’s the kind of linebacker who can quarterback a defense.
Hampton also emphasized his character-"a great kid"-which always matters at that position.
LB Tristan Phillips
Phillips might be the emotional heartbeat of this class.
Hampton called him “Bryce Boettcher 2.0” and praised his physicality-“he will tattoo you.” At 220 pounds and growing, he’s got the frame to become a 230-235 pound thumper in the middle.
But it’s his leadership that stands out. He helped recruit other players to Oregon and has been all-in from the start.
That kind of buy-in matters, and it shows.
Final Takeaway
Oregon’s 2026 defensive class isn’t just loaded with talent-it’s full of guys who fit what the Ducks are building under Chris Hampton. There’s a mix of size, speed, and scheme versatility, but more importantly, there’s a clear focus on football IQ, toughness, and culture. From future stars like Jett Washington and “Tank” Jones to high-upside prospects like Banag and Horisk, this group has the pieces to shape the Ducks’ defense for years to come.
If this class develops the way Oregon hopes, don’t be surprised if we’re looking back in a few years and pointing to 2026 as a turning point for the Ducks on that side of the ball.