Oregon Ducks Face Key 2026 Recruiting Setbacks Amid Elite Target Race

The Oregon Ducks, under coach Dan Lanning, are actively building their 2026 recruiting class with notable commitments like five-star OT Immanuel Iheanacho and four-star OT Tommy Tofi, but they have faced several setbacks including the decommitment of three-star defensive lineman Viliami Moala and the loss of four-star quarterback Matt Ponatoski to Kentucky. Moala, a hometown recruit, surprised many by reopening his recruitment and transferring to a high school in Alabama, while Ponatoski, a highly ranked quarterback, chose Kentucky partly to pursue dual-sport opportunities. Oregon is also contending for elite pass-rusher Anthony "Tank" Jones against powerhouse programs Alabama and Texas A&M, with recent visits and strong recruiter-player relationships keeping Oregon competitive in the race. Despite these efforts, the Ducks have struggled to secure top cornerbacks, losing four-star Chauncey Kennon to Florida State, although they remain hopeful about prospects like four-star Davon Benjamin. Oregon's 2026 class is currently ranked eighth nationally, reflecting both promising developments and significant challenges as they attempt to maintain their recruiting momentum. The Ducks aim to leverage their recent undefeated Big Ten championship and College Football Playoff appearance to attract talent and improve their roster for upcoming seasons.