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As the Oregon Ducks gear up for the 2026 college football season, much of the attention has centered on the formidable running back duo of Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. However, a seasoned presence in the backfield is quietly making waves during fall camp, positioning himself as an indispensable asset to the team's championship aspirations.
Simeon Price, who transferred from Colorado, has been turning heads with his leadership and experience. The veteran back, who has played for three different FBS programs over four years, is looking to add the final piece to what could be another dynamic running back trio for the Ducks. His journey through multiple coaching changes and systems has equipped him with a unique perspective that he now shares with his younger teammates.
During the Ducks' seventh practice of fall camp, running backs coach RaShaad Samples lauded Price's influence. "Simeon's another coach in there," Samples remarked. "We call him unc. The boys joke they don't know who's older, me or Simeon. He's amazing, man. I couldn't have wished for a better guy to get out of the portal. He leads those guys. Sometimes he asks me, 'Coach Samp, let me talk to these guys for a minute.' And it's different when you got a player-led room. When you got a guy in this room who had three or four different offensive coordinators, three or four head coaches giving you perspective from experience. They all trust him. They believe in him. Those guys in that room love each other. Simeon has been a blessing to the room on top of what he brings to the football field."
Key Analysis
Price's role as a mentor is crucial for a Ducks squad that has its sights set on a national title. While Davison and Hill are the headline names, the team also boasts promising young backs like Tradarian Ball, DaJaun Dink Riggs, and Brandon Smith, who stand to benefit immensely from Price's guidance. His collegiate career, which includes stints at Mississippi State (2022-23), Coastal Carolina (2024), and Colorado (2025), has seen him accumulate 100 carries for 470 yards and two touchdowns. Though his previous teams were not at Oregon's level, Price now finds himself in Eugene, ready to contribute to one of the most talented rosters in the nation.
In the wake of recent injury rumors surrounding Jordon Davison, Samples addressed the speculation directly. "I'm not sure what information was talked about or said, but I mean, I know that kid just practiced his butt off. You know, he had a really good day of practice today," Samples said. "He finished runs. He's continuing to get his body in shape. He's a really hard worker. He works in and on and off the field, and he's continuing to become a leader every single day." This update offers a measure of relief for Ducks fans, though if the rumors prove true, Price would be called upon to anchor the running game until key matchups against USC on September 26 and UCLA on October 10. Oregon is no stranger to overcoming injuries, having navigated several offensive setbacks during last season's playoff push, and Price's veteran presence could be the stabilizing force needed to keep the Ducks' title hopes alive.