Farewell and Thank You: Honoring the Departing Oregon Ducks Football Players 2024

Farewell and Thank You: Honoring the Departing Oregon Ducks Football Players

As another unforgettable season comes to an end, the Oregon Ducks football family bids a heartfelt farewell to a group of extraordinary players who have left an indelible mark on the program. Their talent, hard work, and dedication have brought pride and excitement to Duck Nation. While it’s bittersweet to see them go, we celebrate their contributions and wish them well as they take the next step in their journeys.

Let’s take a moment to honor these departing players:

Offense: Leaving a Legacy on the Field

WR Tez Johnson: A dynamic presence in the Ducks’ offense, Tez dazzled fans with his speed and playmaking ability. His ability to turn short catches into long gains electrified Autzen Stadium. In his final season with the Ducks, Tez racked up 83 catches for 893 yards and 10 TDs, despite missing time with an injury. His electric presence was also felt in the return game. Also, did you know he is Bo Nix’s adopted brother?

RB Jordan James: A powerhouse in the backfield, Jordan’s strength and versatility made him a cornerstone of the running game, consistently breaking tackles and racking up touchdowns. He finished the season with 1,184 yards and 14 TDs.

WR Traeshon Holden: With reliable hands and an ability to stretch the field, Traeshon made key plays when it mattered most, becoming a trusted target for the Ducks. Showing up when the team needed him the most, Traeshon made the most of his short tenure as a Duck. He finishes the season with 45 catches for 718 yards and 5 touchdowns.

TE Terrance Ferguson & TE Patrick Herbert: This dynamic duo of tight ends brought size, skill, and grit to the offense. Ferguson was a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses pulling down 43 catches for 591 yards and 3 TDs while Herbert’s blocking skills made him an asset in any jumbo package. Rumor has it the Herbert also has an older brother who is a pretty good QB.

LT Josh Conerly & OL Marcus Harper, Ajani Cornelius, Nishad Strother: The offensive line anchored by these players was nothing short of dominant, paving the way for the Ducks’ explosive offense and keeping the quarterback protected. After a rough start to the season, the o-line put together an impressive performance that allowed Oregon to rank among the best in the nation in rushing offense.

QB Dillon Gabriel: Though his time as a Duck was brief, Dillon’s leadership, poise, and playmaking abilities will not be forgotten. He brought experience and a winning mentality to the team. In his lone season as a Duck, he amassed 3566 yards and 27 touchdowns with an impressive 73.2% completion rate, adding 319 yards and 6 TDs on the ground.

Defense: The Heart of the Ducks’ Grit

DL Derrick Harmon: After transferring to Oregon Harmon’s presence could be absolutely game-wrecking for opposing offenses. Tallying 41 tackles, he added 4 sacks and 2 forced fumbles to his resume.

DE Jordan Burch: A relentless edge rusher, Jordan’s ability to pressure the quarterback and shut down the run game showcased his exceptional athleticism. Burch managed 31 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 4 passes defended and a forced fumble in his final season. Fans will long remember his lone rushing attempt, a 36-yard scamper on a fake punt.

LB Jeffrey Bassa: Anchoring the defense, Bassa brought intensity, versatility, and leadership to every game, consistently making key tackles and big plays. Bassa acted as the quarterback of the defense, and his presence was pivotal to getting the team lined up properly. He also added 54 tackles, 2 pass break-ups and 2 forced fumbles.

DL Jamaree Caldwell: Another massive transfer get, Caldwell totaled 29 tackles, 4.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and 3 pass break-ups.

CBs Kam Alexander, Dontae Manning, Jabbar Muhammad, & Nikko Reed: This talented group of cornerbacks brought toughness and tenacity to the secondary, locking down opposing receivers and creating turnovers when the team needed them most. Muhammad racked up 41 tackles and 12 pass breakups.

While the focus was often on Muhammad, Manning and Reed made big plays when the Ducks needed them.

Safeties Brandon Johnson & Tysheem Johnson: Their ability to read the field and deliver hard-hitting plays made them vital to the Ducks’ defensive success, providing stability and leadership in the backfield. Tysheem trailed only Boettcher and Savage in tackles with 57, and a pair of interceptions to boot. Brandon added 41 tackles, an interception, and 4 pass break-ups to his own resume.

Special Mentions

DL Keyon Ware-Hudson, LBs Jestin Jacobs & Connor Soelle: Solid rotation players and key contributors for the Ducks, the strength of the Oregon defense was always the solid depth they could turn to.

A Legacy to Remember

These players have given their all to the Oregon Ducks, earning the admiration and respect of teammates, coaches, and fans. They have inspired countless young athletes, created memories that will last a lifetime, and brought glory to the green and yellow.

As they pursue new opportunities, whether in the NFL, professional leagues, or other endeavors, they carry with them the unwavering support of Duck Nation. Once a Duck, always a Duck.

Thank You and Go Ducks!

To each of these departing players: Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and the incredible moments you’ve given us. You will forever be part of the Oregon Ducks family, and we look forward to cheering you on in your future endeavors.

Go Ducks!