Coming off a season that saw them as the nation’s top-ranked squad for much of the year, the Oregon Ducks are set to face a significant transition as they lose three key players early to the NFL Draft. Despite a successful campaign that included a College Football Playoff (CFP) loss in a rematch against Ohio State, the Ducks showcased a wealth of talent. Let’s dive into the details of the promising prospects who are departing early for the professional ranks.
Key Oregon players heading to the NFL Draft
Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon OL
A five-star recruit from Seattle, Josh Conerly Jr. has certainly lived up to the hype during his time with the Ducks. As a Day 1 starter, he has spent three seasons at tackle, consistently demonstrating his skills on the field. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 315 pounds, Conerly combines size with surprising agility and mobility. In fact, he even caught a four-yard touchdown pass as a freshman, showcasing his versatility.
Conerly is projected to be a solid first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. While his projections may place him a few spots behind his teammate Derrick Harmon, he remains a strong candidate for a lower first-round selection. A standout performance at the NFL Combine could further enhance his draft stock, given his impressive agility and power.
Derrick Harmon, Oregon DT
Another standout leaving Oregon is Derrick Harmon, a formidable defensive tackle. Originally a three-star recruit from Detroit, Harmon developed into a reliable player during his time at Michigan State before transferring to Oregon for the 2023 season. With 45 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and five sacks in his final season, Harmon made a significant impact on the Ducks’ defense.
At 6-foot-5 and 330 pounds, Harmon possesses the ability to be both a pass rusher and a disruptive run stopper. He is projected to be a mid to late first-round selection in the NFL Draft. A strong showing at the combine could elevate him to the middle of the round, but most projections currently place him toward the back end of the first round, likely landing with a playoff-bound team.
Jordan James, Oregon RB
Rounding out the trio is Jordan James, a dynamic running back who has steadily improved over his three seasons at Oregon. A four-star recruit from Tennessee, James finished the 2024 season with impressive statistics: 1,267 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, along with 26 receptions. His durability was a question mark early on, but with 233 carries this past season, he proved he can handle a heavy workload.
However, James faces a challenge in the NFL due to his height; at 5-foot-10, he may not fit the traditional mold for running backs in a league that often favors taller players. While he is expected to receive an opportunity at the next level, most projections place him in the middle rounds, with the fifth round being a realistic estimate for his draft position.
Reflecting on Oregon’s talent exodus
The departure of these three players marks a significant moment for the Ducks as they transition into the next chapter. Each of these athletes has contributed immensely to Oregon’s success, and their early exit for the NFL Draft speaks volumes about their potential and the talent cultivated within the program.
As fans, we can’t help but wonder how these decisions will impact the Ducks moving forward. Will they be able to fill the gaps left by these talented players? Oregon has a reputation for developing top-tier talent, so it will be interesting to see how they reload for the upcoming season.
What do you think about Oregon’s trio of losses? Will their absence be felt on the field, or will new recruits step up to fill the void? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
In the world of college football, the NFL Draft is always a time of excitement and uncertainty. For Oregon, this year is no different. As the Ducks prepare to say goodbye to Harmon, Conerly, and James, they also look ahead to a new crop of talent eager to make their mark. The future remains bright for Oregon, but the road ahead will require resilience and determination.
As we continue to follow the developments in college football, the stories of these young athletes remind us of the ever-changing landscape of the sport. Each player’s journey is unique, and their paths to the NFL are filled with challenges and triumphs. The Ducks may be losing some key players, but the spirit of Oregon football remains strong, and fans can expect to see new stars rise in the coming seasons.
