Following a historic season in 2024, in which Oregon won the Big Ten Conference in its first season as a new league member, a sour taste was left in the mouths of Duck fans everywhere after a blowout loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Rose Bowl.

EUGENE — Oregon opens its fourth spring practice under Dan Lanning on Thursday. The Ducks have to replace starters at quarterback, running back, two receivers, tight end, four offensive linemen, three defensive linemen, middle linebacker and the entire secondary.

Analysis: The Oregon Ducks' sole linebacker addition is Gavin Nix, a 4-star 2025 recruit from IMG Academy, who at 6 feet, 225 pounds, could make an impact for the Ducks' defense as early as next year. He won't be starting, but Nix is good enough already to see some game time, affording us a preview of what lies down the road for Oregon's defense.