Former Florida State wide receiver Malik Benson has officially committed to Oregon after entering the NCAA Transfer Portal, as reported by On3’s Hayes Fawcett. This move marks a significant step in Benson’s football journey, which has seen him traverse multiple programs in search of success.
Oregon’s Ambitious Future
As the Ducks gear up for the 2025 season, they are hungry for redemption. After a stellar 12-0 regular season and a victory over Penn State in the Big Ten Championship, Oregon faced a tough defeat against Ohio State in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. With the addition of talented players like Benson, head coach Dan Lanning is poised to take the program to new heights. Entering his fourth season, Lanning is determined to turn the team’s aspirations into reality.
Benson’s Journey Through College Football
Benson’s football career has been anything but conventional. He began his collegiate journey at Hutchinson Community College, where he made a name for himself. Over two seasons, he accumulated an impressive 2,152 receiving yards and ranked second in program history with 21 receiving touchdowns. His standout performance in 2021 earned him first-team NJCAA DI All-America honors, thanks to a remarkable season in which he recorded 43 receptions for 1,229 yards and 11 touchdowns. This achievement not only showcased his talent but also broke a single-season record that had stood since 1970.
Florida State Experience
After his success at Hutchinson, Benson transferred to Alabama for a season. During his time with the Crimson Tide, he made 14 appearances and started six games, showcasing his skills on a national stage. He finished the season with 13 catches for 162 yards, with his best performance coming against Texas, where he recorded two receptions for 33 yards. Following his stint in Alabama, Benson made his way to Florida State, where he continued to develop as a player.
In the 2024 campaign, Benson was a key contributor for the Seminoles, appearing in all 12 games. He wrapped up the season with 25 catches for 311 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, he showcased his versatility with two rushing attempts and one punt return, proving he could impact the game in multiple ways.
High School Beginnings
Benson’s journey began at Lansing High School in Kansas, where he was an unranked prospect in the 2021 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. Despite not being highly sought after, he worked hard to prove his worth and carve out a successful college football career.
Choosing Oregon
In a competitive recruitment process, Benson ultimately chose Oregon over other notable programs like Kansas State and Tennessee. His decision reflects the growing appeal of the Ducks’ program and their commitment to building a competitive team. Benson was ranked as the No. 91 wide receiver entering the transfer portal, according to On3’s 2025 Transfer Portal Player Rankings. This ranking highlights his potential and the impact he could have in the upcoming season.
The Transfer Portal Landscape
The transfer portal has become a pivotal aspect of college football, allowing players to seek new opportunities and find the best fit for their skills. The portal officially opened on December 7 and closed on December 28, but players from teams still in postseason play are granted an additional five-day window to enter after their season concludes. This dynamic environment keeps fans and analysts on their toes as they track player movements and team adjustments.
Keeping Up with Player Movements
For those eager to stay updated on the latest player transfers and movements, resources like On3’s Transfer Portal wire and their social media accounts provide timely information. The college football landscape is ever-changing, and being informed is crucial for fans and analysts alike.
Looking Ahead
With Malik Benson joining the Ducks, there’s a palpable excitement surrounding Oregon’s football program. His diverse skill set and proven track record make him a valuable asset as the team looks to rebound from last season’s playoff disappointment. Will Benson be the key piece that propels Oregon to new heights? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the Ducks are gearing up for a thrilling 2025 season, and fans can’t wait to see what unfolds on the gridiron.
