4-star OT Jac'Qawn McRoy commits to Oregon: 'They have the best of the best'

Programs from across the SEC footprint were in pursuit of Pinson (Ala.) Clay-Chalkville four-star offensive lineman Jac’Qawn McRoy.

But there was one offer he really coveted: Oregon. Early on in his recruitment, the Ducks weren’t really pursuing him, so he reached out to offensive line coach Adrian Klemm. Once he got the offer from Klemm, Oregon jumped to the top of his list. Even after Klemm left for the NFL, they stayed there. And on Saturday, he publicly announce his commitment, choosing the program in the PNW over Arkansas.

“I honestly knew 100% when they offered really,” he told On3. “I looked around, but Oregon was always the one. Really, I recruited them. I had not heard from Oregon, so I reached out to Coach Klemm. We talked a little, then he showed up at my school in January and offered me. I was smiling ear to ear — that is when it started.”

Visits locked in his decision

The 6-foot-8, 340-pounder visited Oregon twice, once in the spring then for an official visit. He loved the atmosphere, the weather, and everything about the program.

And he was also ready to get out of the southern heat in Alabama.

“Once I saw everything, I knew I loved it,” he said. “After being up there for two days in the spring, Oregon was on top. Oregon has the best of the best. They look the best, and they have the best facilities. They have the best support — it’s everything a recruit wants. I am going there and now it’s up to me; I will have everything I need and I will get the coaching to be successful.

Relationship with A’Lique Terry was key for Jac’Qawn McRoy

Even when Klemm left for the NFL, McRoy’s interest in the Ducks remained strong. Once they officially hired new offensive line coach A’Lique Terry, they began building a relationship that has turned them into what feels like brothers.

“He is a younger guy, so we relate to each other and he is just cool,” McRoy said. “I see him differently from how I see other coaches. We can talk about anything and he is like a big brother. He is older than me, he is an adult and I respect him as a coach, but our relationship is different. I can’t wait to play for him.”

Oregon’s young staff in general was a draw for McRoy, including head coach Dan Lanning, who made him a personal priority as well.

“He recruited me hard, and he made me feel important,” he said. “Coach Lanning told me I can come in and make a difference in the program. I love Coach Lanning and his younger staff. It’s just different.”