Early Look: Oregon Football Recruiting Needs in Class of '23
It’s unlikely at this point that Oregon will sign more than 15 guys for 2022. And with that recruiting cycle falling short of the ideal, what does that mean for 2023?
What are the biggest needs in coach Dan Lanning’s first year?
In no particular order, these are the positions where Oregon is coming up short.
Quarterback: Oregon has landed a grad transfer in Bo Nix. But without an incoming freshman for 2022, the Ducks will need a prep guy — even if no one transfers out. Fortunately, here are a lot of good West Coast options for 2023.
Edge: Oregon may still sign Cyrus Moss, and for argument’s sake let’s say it lands him. Even so, the Ducks are going to need two guys for this group next year.As usual, the majority of the talent for this position lives east of Texas.
Offensive line: Oregon only has one ’22 lineman committed and one signed. And the Ducks need to sign at least three guys by February. That means that in ’23 class, they will need to bring in at least five. Offensive tackle will be a particular priority.
Defensive back: Oregon is hoping to sign two more guys yet this cycle. Even so, this group will need to be a point of emphasis come 2023. As is often the case, the West Coast has no shortage of promising defensive backs in the 2023 class.
Wide receiver: Out of a once-promising group, Oregon might sign only Stephon Johnson for 2022. That means the Ducks will need a minimum of four guys for 2023. There are a few good options out West, but expect the staff to search nationally.
Defensive line: With the departure of a generational pass rusher in Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon will need to cast a wide net here. However, there is one 5-star, Jayden Wayne, in the Pacific Northwest — and he’s definitely in play.