“This is home for me. You never want to say goodbye, not even goodbye, this is just a see you later,” offensive lineman Marcus Harper II reflected on his last moments at the University of Oregon.
Oregon football hosted scouts from dozens of NFL teams at the Moshofsky Center for its inaugural Pro Day. This was a big opportunity for Duck draft prospects to make an impression on professional teams outside of the combine but before private workouts.
The mid-week showcase included 23 Ducks working out, as well as former Oregon wide receiver Chase Cota, who graduated in 2022 and had a one-year stint with the Detroit Lions and is currently looking to make an NFL return. The 2024-25 players were also joined on defense by former Oregon linebacker Mase Funa, also attempting to make an NFL team.
Oregon star tight end Terrance Ferguson was listed for Pro-Day but did not participate in any workouts. He spent the day in the facilities supporting his teammates.
Players participated in the vertical and broad jump tests to begin the open-to-the-media segment of the day. The jump tests were an exciting way to start, with big support from teammates, these athletes showcased their bounce as well as their support for each other. The vertical jump was led by cornerback Dontae Manning, who showcased a 39.5-inch vertical, but still wasn’t satisfied.
“I’m honestly not [happy with the jump],” Manning said. “I feel like I’m a 43, 44 vert jumper, but I’ll take what I can get.”
The next drill was the much anticipated 40-yard dash, the Oregon linemen showed some impressive numbers, including Harper who ran a sub-five-second time. Harper had been one of the longest-tenured Ducks and one of the only players remaining from Mario Cristobal’s tenure as head coach.
“The best five years of my life,” Harper said. “Honestly I turned into a version of myself that I like, and I’m satisfied with.”
Position drills were a highlight from Tuesday, as a number of Ducks did not participate in physical tests but competed with their drills. Offensive players included Dillon Gabriel, Tez Johnson, and Josh Conerly Jr. The defensive players participating in only position workouts included Jordan Burch, Jamaree Caldwell and Derrick Harmon.
Beginning with quarterback and receiver throws, the connection between Johnson and Gabriel was as strong as ever, connecting on a beautiful deep ball. Traeshon Holden was testing well all day, and his hands were as strong as ever, but a couple of missed deep throws that were just out of reach.
Offensive line drills were a big chance for players like Ajani Cornelius and Nishad Strother to boost their draft stock. Both showed excellent footwork and strength against the simulated pass rush, continuing to show the depth of Oregon’s offensive line room.
Jabbar Muhammad and Manning led a victorious day for the defensive backs. Manning tested off the charts during the physical tests and followed it up with an impressive showing on direction and coverage drills. Muhammad had a good showing at the NFL Combine but decided to participate in every drill today, after being prompted by his brother.
“My little brother asked me if I was going to do the on-field drills since I did them at the combine, I was like, I got to get out there with my guys one more time,” Muhammad said.
Defensive line drills were yet another success for Oregon. Projected first-round pick Harmon, was physically imposing yet again, reminding the scouts why they would be foolish to pass on him. Defensive end Burch also had a great pro day, showing off his physicality and intimidating combination of speed and size.
It wouldn’t be an Oregon event without a showcase from linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, who excelled on his athletic testing on Tuesday. Ducks fans have become familiar with the leadership and consistency of Bassa, but his hard-hitting play and devoted attitude are what may land him a spot in the NFL draft.
Oregon, now with another successful pro day in the books, will watch its players disperse to their individual pre-draft workouts but thank them for being a part of such a special 2024 team.
These Ducks will hope to hear their names called when the NFL Draft begins at 5:00 pm PST on Apr. 24.