ESPN names Oregon’s biggest weak point going into 2024 season

On paper, this Oregon Ducks defense that is set to take the field in 2024 is among the most talented we’ve seen in Eugene in quite some time. With a mix of transfer portal stars and homegrown talent, Dan Lanning has the unit among the nation’s best so far this preseason.

But if there is a vulnerability, at least according to ESPN, it is the very last line of the defense on the field in the safety position.

It’s not for the lack of talent, however.

Oregon’s so-called safety problem is the inexperience and bringing in newcomers such as transfer Kobe Savage from Kansas State and true freshman Kingston Lopa. ESPN’s Paolo Uggetti says the present and future is very bright for the Ducks.

Oregon’s safeties are not so much a weakness as much as they are a question mark. The Ducks lost Evan Williams, Steve Stephens IV and Bryan Addison at the position from last year but added Kobe Savage, who should slide into a starting spot, from Kansas State. After Savage, however, the depth is murky. Tysheem Johnson has shown potential but also of lackluster play, which could open up a window for a younger player to step up this season. — Paolo Uggetti

It’s fair to question the unit right now as we wait to get a feel for how things shake out and see what the production will be like. But it wouldn’t come as any surprise at all to see the Ducks’ safety unit quickly establish themselves as elite early in the season this year.

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