Several Ducks among the most feared players in the country says CBS
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The 2026 college football year promises to be a banner season for the OregonDucks.
They have offensive weapons galore, led by quarterback Dante Moore, one of the best signal callers in the country and a definite Heisman Trophy candidate. Oregon should have no problem on that side of the ball.
But what might get lost in the mix is that the Ducks could have one of the best defensive units out there. They brought back several veterans, who will play with very talented underclassmen.
According to CBS Sports, Oregon has several defensive players who are considered to be the most feared in the nation. They listed 26 players (for the year 2026) described as those that have “disruption, versatility and the rare ability to tilt game plans before the first snap (that) define these players.”
The first Duck listed, at No. 5, is defensive lineman A’Mauri Washington. He could have been drafted by the NFL this past April, but Washington chose to return to Eugene. CBS says Washington is one a group of small players that can disrupt an opposing offense in many ways.
“Few interior defenders are as disruptive snap-for-snap, and Washington consistently collapses the pocket from the interior, a devastating development for quarterbacks trying to step up against the Ducks’ edge pressure,” CBS writer Brad Crawford. “Washington’s value goes beyond the numbers, too. He eats double teams, clogs rushing lanes and creates cleaner opportunities for linebackers behind him.”
Next on the list, at No. 10, is cornerback Brandon Finney. CBS says he shouldn’t experience a sophomore slump in 2026.
“Finney has the length, fluid hips, and closing speed that translates cleanly to the next level, but what separates him as a potential future first-round pick is how advanced he already is in coverage recognition,” Crawford said. “He doesn’t just react — he anticipates route combinations and understands spacing at a veteran level.”
A new Duck, safety Koi Perich, a transfer from Minnesota, will be able to step on the field of Autzen Stadium and contribute right away.
“Perich’s instincts and range should allow Oregon to stay multiple without sacrificing communication or structure,” CBS said. “He also brings a physical edge in run support, much like last cycle’s future first-round addition, Dillon Thieneman.”
Last, but not least on this list, is linebacker Teitum Tuioti, who could be considered the best Duck defender this season, is a definite throwback to an era almost forgotten.
“Oregon rarely misses on linebackers during the recruiting process, and Tuioti is another star. He plays with natural leverage, closes downhill with authority, and finishes under control, all qualities coaching staffs look for in a difference-maker in the middle or on the outside,” Crawford said.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: CBS says Oregon has several defensive players among most feared
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