The Oregon Ducks football program has been hard at work, and there’s plenty to appreciate about how Dan Lanning has transformed an already strong team into a top-tier title contender. Among the recent roster additions, a few stand out as particularly impactful for 2024 and beyond.
**3. Jamaree Caldwell & Derrick Harmon: Dynamic Transfer Duo**
The defensive trenches were a key area in need of reinforcement, especially with the challenge of shutting down the Big-10’s potent offenses. Caldwell and Harmon, two highly-rated transfers, bring significant strength to the defensive line. Both excel against the run and can consistently pressure the quarterback. Caldwell’s 6.5 sacks from the interior last season will be a major asset, enhancing the defense’s ability to contain outside plays. Their arrival bolsters the group, providing much-needed support to players like Keyon Ware-Hudson and Jordan Burch in the absence of Dorlus.
**2. Evan Stewart: Immediate Replacement for Troy Franklin**
With Troy Franklin moving on to the Denver Broncos alongside Bo Nix, the Ducks needed a new go-to receiver. Lanning struck gold with the addition of Evan Stewart from Texas A&M. Stewart’s versatility allows him to line up across the offense, and he’s poised to become a significant threat to Big-10 defenses right away. Alongside Tez Johnson and Traeshon Holden, Stewart will help elevate an already explosive offense, now led by Dillon Gabriel.
**1. Dillon Gabriel and Dante Moore: Oregon’s Elite New Quarterback Duo**
Honorable Mention: Jabbar Muhammad
Gabriel is the perfect choice to step into the leadership role left by Nix. After a few warm-up games and some time to build chemistry with the team, Gabriel is expected to excel in this offense. He’s a seamless fit for the present, while Moore is positioned as the quarterback of the future. Even early in the offseason, there was talk of Moore potentially challenging for the QB1 spot, though surpassing Gabriel’s experience and stats from Oklahoma, UCF, and UCLA would have been a tall order.
Moore’s development, along with Austin Novosad’s impressive performance, highlights Lanning’s success in recruiting, building a strong team culture, and executing at the highest level. Lanning has created an environment that’s not only appealing for its flashy facilities and uniforms but also for its commitment to developing and nurturing a talented roster.
