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As the Oregon Ducks gear up for the 2026 season, offensive lineman Kawika Rogers is embracing a fresh start under a new offensive coordinator. Drew Mehringer, who has served as co-offensive coordinator and tight ends coach since 2022, steps into the role after Will Stein departed to become the head coach at Kentucky. Rogers offered high praise for Mehringer during media day, signaling confidence in the transition.
The Ducks' offense was prolific in 2025, averaging 36.9 points per game, ranking 11th nationally among 136 FBS teams. Whether Mehringer can maintain or exceed that output remains a key storyline. Rogers' endorsement suggests the unit is in capable hands, but the pressure is on to replicate past success.
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On the defensive side, outside linebacker Nasir Wyatt has been busy in the offseason, adding 20-30 pounds of muscle. Wyatt also highlighted the improved agility of teammate Matayo Uiagalelei, noting, "I think he's going to move a lot more twitchier this year. Just seeing it off the block, I'm like, 'Man, this dude is twitching.'" Uiagalelei, who has recorded 90 total tackles, 25 tackles for loss, and 18.5 sacks in his first three seasons, appears poised for a breakout campaign.
Head coach Dan Lanning addressed the running back room, featuring Dierre Hill Jr. and Jordon Davison, who emerged as impactful true freshmen in 2025. "They both had huge roles in our team and now they have a lot of experience too," Lanning said. "They played a lot on ability and now they're getting the opportunity to play on what they know." He acknowledged the group will be different but is optimistic about their development.
Lanning also drew comparisons between this Oregon squad and the 2022 Georgia team he helped coach to a national title, noting similarities in talent and experience. Regarding the in-house hires for both coordinator positions, Lanning said, "When you stay in-house, maybe you don't create as many new ideas. I'm really excited about the new ideas that we've had brought." He emphasized that while adjustments are underway, there won't be drastic schematic changes.
Originally reported by headtopics.