Eugene, Oregon – – The University of Oregon football program continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail, securing the nation’s No. 2 recruiting class for 2026, trailing only the University of Southern California. This achievement, highlighted by a focused approach to identifying and securing top talent, underscores the program’s rising profile under head coach Dan Lanning.
The success of the Ducks’ 2026 class is particularly notable given the comparatively smaller class size – 24 commitments – compared to USC’s 36. This indicates a highly selective recruitment strategy, prioritizing quality over quantity, and a demonstrated ability to attract elite players despite facing competition from a program with a larger recruiting pool.
Recent scouting reports from ESPN have further illuminated the caliber of Oregon’s incoming class. Three future Ducks were included in the publication’s rankings of the top two players at each position. Leading the charge is five-star tight end Kendre Harrison, who ESPN analysts believe possesses the potential to become a key contributor to Oregon’s passing attack, following in the footsteps of former Ducks tight ends Terrance Ferguson and Kenyon Sadiq.
“Harrison is an exceptional athlete who also ranks among SC Next’s top 100 basketball players in the 2026 class,” wrote Craig Haubert and Tom Luginbill of ESPN. “Some of those basketball tools show up in football when he high-points the ball and boxes out defenders in contested situations. With good hands and a wide catch radius, he could take the baton at tight end and develop into Oregon’s next impactful tight end after Terrance Ferguson and Kenyon Sadiq excelled at a position that’s key to the Ducks’ passing attack.”
While Harrison is projected to be a significant addition, the Ducks already have a promising tight end on the roster in Jamari Johnson. This provides a strategic advantage, allowing Harrison to develop and contribute in a supporting role during his freshman season before potentially assuming a more prominent position in 2027.
Also earning recognition from ESPN was offensive lineman Immanuel Iheanacho, lauded for his imposing size and potential to become a dominant force on the line. Analysts noted his “elite arm length and jolting punch” but also highlighted the importance of managing his weight to maximize his agility and power.
“Defenders will have to log some miles to get around the massive 6-foot-6, 350-pound Iheanacho,” ESPN reported. “Helping him maximize his mass will be key for Oregon, but he has impressive quickness and balance for his size. Iheanacho’s elite arm length and jolting punch knock rushers off their path. A two-time Under Armour All-American, Iheanacho enjoys competing and is laser focused. If he can manage his weight to accentuate his movement skills and power, there’s no doubt he can develop into one of college football’s best offensive linemen at either tackle or guard.”
Rounding out the trio of highly-rated Oregon recruits is five-star safety Jett Washington, praised for his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple roles. ESPN analysts highlighted his size, athleticism, and willingness to tackle, suggesting he could be a valuable asset in a variety of defensive schemes.
“A long, rangy hybrid safety/linebacker, Washington is at his best playing near the box and can even rush the passer off the edge,” ESPN stated. “For a 6-foot-5, 210-pounder, Washington can really run for his size. Although he’s agile and flexible, there’s some risk he’ll outgrow safety, but Washington is a willing tackler who flashes the ability to pack a punch. He’s a sideline-to-sideline player who fits best covering backs and tight ends.”
The success of Oregon’s recruiting efforts comes against a backdrop of shifting dynamics in college football, including the ongoing transition within the Pac-12 and the emergence of new rivalries in the Big Ten. The program’s ability to attract top talent is seen as crucial to its continued competitiveness as it navigates these changes.
The Ducks’ recruiting strategy appears to be aligned with a broader emphasis on versatility and adaptability, as evidenced by the profiles of players like Washington. This approach, coupled with the coaching staff’s demonstrated ability to identify and develop talent, positions Oregon for sustained success in the years to come. The program’s recent success on the field, including a victory over USC, has undoubtedly contributed to its recruiting momentum.
The incoming class is expected to contribute significantly to the program, building upon the foundation laid by the 2025 class, which also made an immediate impact. The Ducks’ ability to integrate young players into key roles will be a critical factor in their pursuit of conference and national championships.
