Oregon Ducks hope for strong NFL draft showing
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The NFL draft could be a record-setting event for Oregon as the Ducks look to build on their momentum from last year.
Why it matters: A record eight players were selected from the University of Oregon in 2024, and NFL analysts believe the school is set to see even more players picked when the draft begins Thursday night.
Zoom in: Oregon star defensive tackle Derrick Harmon is projected to be taken in the first round, though his stock has fallen a bit in recent days after a report on unspecified medical concerns has given some teams pause, per Sports Illustrated.
- Offensive lineman Josh Conerly Jr. could be a high pick as well, though some projections have him sliding to the second round.
- If either gets taken in the first round, it will be the sixth year in a row the University of Oregon has had a first-round pick.
- Quarterback Dillon Gabriel — a Heisman Trophy finalist who led the Ducks to the Rose Bowl last season — is predicted to be chosen late in the third round.
Zoom out: The Ducks have several more players hoping to hear their names called over the three-day draft.
- Defensive end Jordan Burch, wide receiver Tez Johnson and tight end Terrance Ferguson have all declared for the draft and could be taken in the second round.
- Running back Jordan James, linebacker Jeffrey Bassa and Gabriel round out the Ducks' top prospects.
- In total, Oregon could see as many a dozen players picked over the 257 draft selections this year.
If you watch: The draft starts Thursday at 5pm PT on ESPN and ABC.