Oregon fans, get ready! Evan Stewart is officially back in action for the 2026 season after missing all of last year with a knee injury. His return *bolsters* an already stacked wide receiver group, putting the Ducks in a prime position to field what could truly be the best group of pass-catchers in the entire country.
Stewart’s Return Elevates an Already Elite Squad
Let’s be real, this coaching staff under Dan Lanning doesn’t mess around when it comes to bringing in receiver talent. Even without Stewart last season, this group was giving opposing secondaries absolute fits trying to stop them. Now, you throw Stewart back into the mix, and it’s a whole different ballgame. The talent level just goes up exponentially with him on the field. The Ducks made it to the College Football Playoff semifinals in 2025, falling just short of that elusive national championship. With a veteran core returning and Stewart seemingly at 100 percent for 2026, it looks like this is their year to deliver. These receivers aren’t just getting by, either; they’ll be practicing against one of the best defenses in the country Monday through Friday, which will only sharpen them for Saturdays. The only real threats to this room are themselves and the trainer’s room.
Who’s Stepping Up and Who’s Gone
Sure, Oregon lost some really talented receivers from last year, and filling shoes like Malik Benson’s 43 catches, 719 yards, and six touchdowns or Gary Bryant, Jr.’s 26 catches, 306 yards, and four touchdowns won’t be easy. That’s a lot of production out the door. However, the Ducks are going into 2026 with an even deeper unit than they had in 2025, which is saying something! Joining Stewart, who they definitely missed in those two losses to Indiana last season, are some serious playmakers. Redshirt sophomore Jeremiah McClellan hauled in 38 catches for 557 yards and three touchdowns, while true sophomore Dakorien Moore grabbed 34 catches for 497 yards and three touchdowns in 2025. Both showed serious flashes of what they can do on the field. With talented freshmen, a young but experienced group, and superstars like Stewart back, this roster has a legitimate opportunity to achieve their championship goal.
It’s clear the Ducks are loaded at receiver, and the 2026 season is going to be a wild ride. Get ready to see some serious fireworks from this group as they chase that national championship!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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