While Oregon’s season came to an unexpected halt with a College Football Playoff (CFP) loss to Ohio State, the Ducks are making significant strides in the transfer portal. This offseason, Oregon is welcoming a host of talented players, solidifying its status as one of the premier programs in the nation. With a successful season in the Big Ten under their belt, the Ducks have emerged as a highly sought-after destination for transfers.
Oregon’s impressive season recap
The Ducks just wrapped up a remarkable 13-1 season, showcasing their offensive prowess by passing for nearly 4,000 yards. They not only dominated their conference but also took down CFP contenders like Boise State, Ohio State, and Penn State. This success on the field has undoubtedly contributed to their attractiveness in the transfer portal, as players look to join a winning culture.
Top transfer portal additions for Oregon
As Oregon gears up for the next season, they are among the early winners of the conference realignment shift. Their continued success in recruiting is a testament to their strong program. Here are three standout transfers that the Ducks are adding from the portal:
3. Makhi Hughes, Tulane RB
Makhi Hughes is a name that Oregon fans should get excited about. After a stellar two-year stint at Tulane, Hughes is set to step into the Ducks’ lineup, filling the shoes of NFL Draft-bound Jordan James. Standing at 5-foot-11, Hughes rushed for an impressive 2,779 yards and 22 touchdowns during his time at Tulane. His ability to break the 100-yard rushing mark 14 times in his college career speaks volumes about his talent and consistency.
In 2023 and 2024, Hughes showcased his skills with six-game and five-game streaks of 100-yard performances, respectively. With Oregon’s talented offensive line paving the way, Hughes is poised to make an immediate impact and could be a game-changer for the Ducks.
2. Dillon Thieneman, Purdue S
Another significant addition to Oregon’s roster is Dillon Thieneman, a safety from Purdue. Thieneman has established himself as a formidable presence in the secondary, recording two 100-tackle seasons in his first two years of college football. With a total of 210 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and nine passes defended—including six interceptions in 2023—Thieneman brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Ducks’ defense.
His Big Ten experience will allow him to seamlessly integrate into Oregon’s secondary in 2025, where he will have two seasons of college eligibility remaining. Thieneman’s veteran presence will bolster an already imposing Oregon defense, making him a key asset in their pursuit of success.
1. Isaiah World, Nevada OT
Arguably the most exciting addition to Oregon’s roster is Isaiah World, an offensive tackle from Nevada. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-8, World was one of the top players in the transfer portal and had his pick of premier programs. He earned All-Mountain West honorable mention honors in each of the last two seasons and has been a starter for three years, showcasing his durability and skill.
The only downside for Oregon is that World will only be with the team for one season. Despite the potential for a future in the NFL, he chose to join the Ducks, which speaks to the program’s appeal. Given the scarcity of top tackles in the portal, securing World is a significant achievement for Oregon and could prove to be the most impressive move of the offseason.
The Ducks’ future looks bright
As Oregon continues to build its roster through the transfer portal, the excitement surrounding the program is palpable. With key additions like Hughes, Thieneman, and World, the Ducks are not just looking to recover from last season’s disappointment; they are aiming to elevate their game to new heights. These transfers bring a mix of experience, talent, and proven production that could significantly impact Oregon’s performance in the upcoming season.
What do you think of Oregon’s top transfer portal additions this offseason? Are they poised to make a deeper run in the CFP next year? Share your thoughts on the Ducks in the comments section below! The college football landscape is ever-changing, and with these strategic moves, Oregon is positioning itself for continued success and a bright future.
