The Ones that Got Away: Oregon's Biggest Recruiting Misses

Oregon's Missed Opportunities: A Look Back at the Ones that Got Away

In the fast-paced world of college football recruiting, every decision, every commitment, can shape the future of a program. For the Oregon Ducks, some recruits slipped through their grasp, leaving fans to wonder what could have been. I already revisited Oregon's biggest decommitments, but here we revisit some of the notable players who almost wore the green and yellow but ultimately took their talents elsewhere. This list will not include any of Oregon's decommitments.

Nyck Harbor (South Carolina):

Oregon was on the cusp of securing a prized commitment from 5-star WR/TE Nyck Harbor. The night before his decision, the Ducks were trending positively. Oregon was the favorite up until an hour before his announcement. In a twist of fate, Harbor shocked everyone by choosing South Carolina. His decision left Oregon fans stunned and South Carolina fans jubilant.

Xavier Worthy (Texas):

Oregon seemed poised to land Xavier Worthy, a highly touted and speedy receiver. However, the Ducks opted to take a commitment from another wideout, Isaiah Brevard, leaving Worthy to pursue his collegiate career at Texas. Brevard would later transfer away and never really find success. Worthy's journey culminated in a successful college career and a first-round selection by the Kansas City Chiefs.

DJ Uiagalelei (Clemson):

Despite Oregon's efforts and even earning a crystal ball prediction at one point, DJ Uiagalelei ultimately chose Clemson over the Ducks. While he didn't quite live up to his initial hype, Uiagalelei still showcased glimpses of his talent during his time in college. I wouldn't be surprised to see him breakout this season at Florida State.

Cameron Rising (Texas):

Oregon had high hopes of landing Cameron Rising, with two crystal balls predicting him to commit to the ducks. However, Rising ultimately chose Texas before transferring to Utah, where he is flourishing as a collegiate quarterback.

Tua Tagovailoa (Alabama):

In a decision that Oregon definitely regrets, they chose QB Ryan Kelly over Tua Tagovailoa, who had expressed high interest in the Ducks. He wanted to come to Oregon, but they never offered. Tagovailoa went on to win a national championship at Alabama and become a first-round NFL draft pick, leaving Oregon fans wondering what could have been.

Elijah Molden (Washington):

Elijah Molden, seemingly a lock for Oregon, shocked everyone by committing to Washington instead. Molden proved to be a standout player in college and was drafted in the third round, leaving Oregon fans to rue the one that got away.

Nico Iamaleava (Tennesee)

Oregon was the favorite to land the 5-Star for some time. But in the end he signed with Tennessee. Oregon would then shift focus to Dante Moore and we all know what happens with him.

Justin Williams (Georgia)

5-Star LB Justin Williams was a heavy Oregon favorite for quite awhile. But then Georgia offered him and he couldn't pass up playing for Kirby Smart.

Chuba Hubbard (Oklahoma State):

Despite Oregon having the only crystal ball predicting his commitment, Chuba Hubbard ultimately chose Oklahoma State, where he had a stellar college career, rushing for over 2000 yards in 2019. He would go on to be drafted by the Panthers in the 4th round.

Michael Pittman Jr. and JuJu Smith-Schuster (USC):

Oregon was heavily favored to land both Michael Pittman Jr. and JuJu Smith-Schuster, but they both ultimately signed with USC. Both players had very successful college careers and were drafted into the NFL, leaving Oregon fans to ponder what might have been if they had chosen the Ducks.