The Oregon Ducks have left the pond of the Pac 12 and landed in a lake by joining the Big Ten Conference. Along with the move come a world of expectations, especially for a team that will have plenty of new faces in their starting offense.
The wide receiver room is being recruited heavily , but this year's group in particular carries plenty of intrigue, but fireworks should still be expected from one of the top offenses in the country last year. Let's get to know the names that will be hauling in passes from new starting quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
Starting X wide receiver: Traeshon Holden
Last year, Traeshon Holden transferred to Oregon from Alabama, playing in all 14 games. He wasn't a huge part of the offense in terms of target share and receiving yards, only catching 37 passes for 452 yards, but he found the end zone plenty – Holden had 6 receiving touchdowns and 1 rushing touchdown.
At 6'3" 208 lbs, Holden is going to line up on the outside and use his size and speed to help stretch the field. Holden brings the size and physical element to this wide receiver room.
Starting Z wide receiver: Evan Stewart
With Holden holding (ha) it down on one side, it'll be transfer portal crown jewel Evan Stewart lining up on the other. Stewart figures to lead this team in all receiving categories. He's a big play waiting to happen and will introduce himself to Ducks fans early.
Stewart comes to Oregon entering his true junior season. I assure that it isn't hyperbole when I say this – Stewart is one of the most talented wide receivers in the country. I expect a massive breakout from the playmaker, thanks to his 4.3 speed, route running ability, body control, and excellent hands. Stewart is going to be a focal point in an offensive system that scored the second-most points per game in the country last season at 44.2.
I cannot bang the drum loud enough for Stewart. He's going to have a massive season and be a huge riser heading to the 2025 NFL Draft.
Starting F wide receiver: Tez Johnson
The Ducks have a three-headed monster in the wide receiver room by returning Tez Johnson from last year's squad, who broke the Oregon single-season receptions record with 86. Johnson spent 79% of his time last year in the slot, which is where he'll figure to factor in the most again this year after feasting to the tune of 1,182 yards and 10 touchdowns last fall.
Holden will work the boundary, Stewart will do a little bit of everything, and Johnson will be a matchup nightmare with his shiftiness out of the slot. Johnson's calling cart is his RAC ability – he'll be a layup option for Gabriel to simply get the ball out and let him go to work. Last year, Johnson had 727 yards after the catch, which led all Power Five wide receivers.
This receiving core is loaded with playmakers that have the ability to turn any play into a touchdown. Ducks fans should once again expect fireworks out of Eugene.
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