Unearthing Oregon's Lost Gems:

Who are some of the best players to decommit from Oregon?

Decommitments happen all the time in the world of college football recruiting, and for a program like Oregon, where the pursuit of top talent is relentless, they're no stranger to the highs and lows of the recruiting process. Some decommitments sting more than others, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering about the paths not taken and the players who slipped through their fingers.

1. Peyton Bowen (Oklahoma):

Peyton Bowen was a 5-star DB that initially shocked the world when he pledged his commitment to the Oregon Ducks. Everyone assumed he was going to pick Oklahoma. However, Bowen had other plans. His commitment to Oregon raised eyebrows and hopes among Ducks fans, only to be dashed a few days later when he flipped his decision and opted for Oklahoma. Fast forward to today, Bowen is making waves as a standout performer for the Oklahoma Sooners and will likely be a first or second round draft pick.

2. Kelvin Banks (Texas):

Offensive tackle Kelvin Banks was a prized 5-Star recruit for the Oregon Ducks, with his massive frame and nimble footwork making him a coveted prospect. However, the departure of head coach Mario Cristobal to Miami proved to be a turning point in Banks' recruitment journey. With Cristobal's exit, Banks opted to reopen his commitment and ultimately chose the Texas Longhorns as his collegiate destination. Blessed with elite size and technique, Banks is now poised to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.

3. Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona):

Tetairoa McMillan is a dynamic wide receiver who's known for making jaw-dropping catches. He was another casualty of Mario Cristobal's departure from Oregon. McMillan's decommitment saddened many duck fans as he was a borderline 5-Star recruit. Ultimately, he decided to take his talents to Arizona, where he has emerged as one of college football's premier pass-catchers. With his blend of speed, agility, and hands, McMillan is widely projected to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.

4. Budda Baker (Washington):

Budda Baker, a versatile defensive back with a nose for the ball, was once on the radar of the Oregon Ducks. However, a change of heart led him to decommit from Oregon and ultimately commit to the Washington Huskies. Baker flourished at Washington, establishing himself as a defensive star and earning accolades at the collegiate level. His stellar play translated to the NFL, where he was drafted in the second round and has since become a key contributor for the Arizona Cardinals.

5. Johnny Manziel (Texas A&M):

Johnny Manziel had a flair for drama and was once courted by the Oregon Ducks. However, the emergence of another Heisman-winning quarterback in Marcus Mariota led to Manziel's decommitment from Oregon. Instead, he chose to take his talents to the Texas A&M Aggies, where he etched his name into college football lore with his dynamic play. Manziel ended up winning the Heisman Trophy and was even a first-round NFL Draft pick by the Cleveland Browns.