Dan Lanning addresses how Traeshon Holden situation played out

Before Traeshon Holden could really join the Oregon team, his time with the Ducks came to an end. Head coach Dan Lanning dismissed the transfer wide receiver from the program following an arrest in February. However, once the police decided to not press charges against Holden, Lanning decided to bring him back to be a part of the 2023 season.

Lanning explained the entire process, from kicking Holden off the team to bringing him back. He said Oregon was just dealing with the information presented to them and making decisions based on it. When the information begins to change, Lanning went back on his decision.

“You operate with the information you have in hand,” Lanning said. “We’re always going to put the best interest of our players first and based on the information that you have, you have to utilize that information.

“Certainly, it’s a learning opportunity for every single one of us but it doesn’t mean the information wouldn’t have created a different approach. You just want to make sure you continue to get accurate information.”

Rarely do you find a player who was dismissed from a team return in such a short period of time. But as Lanning laid out, all Oregon could do is work with the information they had. Holden wound up avoiding any punishment from the law and can get back to playing football.

Focus was then changed to the field where Lanning was able to give his thoughts on Holden as a player. Lanning believes Oregon is getting a great receiver, hopefully adding to the already powerful offense led by quarterback Bo Nix. Holden is just another example of the Ducks going out there and getting an SEC-caliber player to contribute.

“What I’m excited about with Traeshon is he has great size,” Lanning said. “He has a big catch radius. He’s picking up our system well. I think he’s proving he can play at a high level. I’m excited to see him play at a high level here.”

Holden began his college career at Alabama, spending three seasons in Tuscaloosa. However, he decided to hit the NCAA transfer portal and eventually landed out West with Lanning. It’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride but Holden is expected to contribute to Oregon this season.

In 10 games last season, Holden caught 25 passes for 331 yards. His six receiving touchdowns saw him finish third for the Crimson Tide.