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USA Today
29-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Checking in with the Oregon Ducks CB room ahead of the 2025 season
We are less than 50 days away from the start of the 2025 college football season, and fewer than two weeks stand between us and the beginning of the Oregon Ducks' fall camp getting off the ground in Eugene. While coaches and players wrap up their final couple of offseason weeks, we're ready to jump back into things and take a deep dive into what's set to take place at Autzen Stadium this year. The Ducks are coming off of an incredible season that saw a 12-0 regular season, a Big Ten Championship, and the No. 1 seed in the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff. The offseason brought significant roster turnover as Oregon sent a program record 10 players into the 2025 NFL draft; however, those players have been replaced by a young yet incredibly talented group of players ready to uphold the standard in Eugene. Will they be able to complete the job? Expectations are high, but it won't be an easy task. Over the next few weeks, many questions will be asked, and a significant number of them will be answered. Once we get a look at things during fall camp, we will be able to predict more accurately how things shape up. However, we already have our depth chart projections for offense and defense from spring. As we continue our preview of the 2025 season, leading up to the kick-off vs. Montana State on August 30, let's take a deep dive, position by position. Previous Position Previews Now let's take a closer look at the cornerbacks as we prepare for fall camp. Overall Oregon Ducks Cornerback Check-In There are a lot of positions in Eugene that are seeing an overhaul this offseason, but that rings true no more than at the cornerback spot, where the Ducks are replacing every starter from last season. While there is a lot of youth and unproven production, this may be one of the most talented groups on the roster for Oregon, with numerous blue-chip prospects ready to make a name for themselves. So, how will they stand apart this season? That's something we need to see play out over the next couple of months, but expectations are high for this group to be among the best in the Big Ten. Departing Oregon Ducks Cornerbacks Career Stats: 60 games, 159 tackles, 8 TFLs, 4 INTs, 40 PBUs, 1 FF, 1 FR Analysis: Oregon is losing its top cornerback, Jabbar Muhammad, this offseason. Muhammad played for the Ducks for one season after playing at Washington and Oklahoma State. Muhammad played a solid year for the Ducks, although his size was sometimes problematic. Career Stats: 54 games, 80 tackles, 1 TFL, 2 INTs, 14 PBUs Analysis: Dontae Manning is the next member of the Ducks' secondary on his way out the door. Five years ago, Manning came to Oregon as one of the Ducks' highest-rated recruits ever, and while he never rose to be one of the top CBs in college football, he crafted a solid career. Career Stats: 49 games, 115 tackles, 9 TFLs, 2 sacks, 5 INTs, 22 PBUs, Analysis: Nikko Reed is another significant loss in the Ducks' secondary, as he is out of eligibility after the 2024 season. Like Muhammad, Reed was also a transfer, beginning his career with the Colorado Buffaloes. Career Stats: 45 games, 82 tackles, 1 sack, 6 INTs, 28 PBUs Analysis: The only departing Ducks corner never to see much of the field is Kam Alexander. After the 2023 season, Alexander transferred to Oregon from UTSA, but as a Duck, he only ever played 71 snaps. Returning Oregon Ducks Cornerbacks Career Stats: 19 games, 35 tackles, 3 TFLs, 1 sack, 2 INTs, 1 PBU, 1 FF Analysis: In 2023, Jahlil Florence was the CB2 opposite Khyree Jackson, and for most of the season, he was fantastic. Florence was kept off the field by injury this season, but did take warmups for the Rose Bowl. This season, expect Florence to be back to full strength and ready to assist the Oregon defense again. Career Stats: 4 games, 3 tackles, 1 INT Analysis: Another exciting Ducks returner is Sione Laulea. A year ago, Laulea was the number one junior college player available. While he didn't play much this past season, Laulea made some great plays, such as his INT against Illinois. At 6 feet 4 inches, Laulea is a tall, slim defender, and this year, Laulea may have a greater chance to crack the starting lineup. Career Stats: None Analysis: Ify Obidegwu was one of the top-ranked players in Oregon's class of 2024, but he didn't enroll early, which makes it very hard to see the field much as a freshman. Now that Obidegwu has played a year in the Oregon system, he'll be fully acclimated and ready to compete with the rest of the Ducks' CB room this spring. Career Stats: None Analysis: Unlike Obidegwu, Dakoda Fields has been on Oregon's campus for over a year now, giving him all the experience he needs to elevate himself within the program. Of the Ducks CBs in the class of 2024, Fields was ranked just behind Obidegwu, but neither has a shortage of talent. I can see one or both playing big-time snaps for the Ducks this season. Incoming Oregon Ducks Cornerbacks Career Stats: 37 games, 103 tackles, 6 TFLs, 3 INTs, 1 Pick Six, 18 PBUs Analysis: Oregon's sole cornerback transfer is Northwestern's Theran Johnson, who played four years for the Wildcats. In 2024, Johnson played the best season of his career by far, finishing with 53 tackles, 4 TFLs, 2 INTs, a pick-six, and 10 PBUs. The small size of the Ducks' secondary became a problem in the Rose Bowl, and at 6 feet tall, Johnson will bring more size to the room. Career Stats: 115 tackles, 2 INT, 17 PBUs Jadon Canady was a late addition to Oregon's roster, but he comes in as another veteran player in the secondary wiht some great experience moving all over the field, whether it's outside on an island or inside in the nickel. 247Sports Recruiting Profile: 5-star, No. 3 CB, No. 13 Overall Recruit Analysis: Oregon's biggest fireworks — or cigar-worthy moment — on early national signing day in 2024 was 5-star CB Na'eem Offord's flip from Ohio State to Oregon. Dan Lanning has brought 5-star players to Oregon since the start, but Offord is one of his most talented recruits ever. Cornerbacks rarely start — or even play — as freshmen, but Offord might be that good. 247Sports Recruiting Profile: 4-star, No. 6 CB, No. 40 Overall Recruit Analysis: Originally rated as a 5-star, Brandon Finney fell a few spots in the latest 247Sports rankings update. He is an incredibly talented player, though, and will be a great addition to Oregon's CB room in the years to come. 247Sports Recruiting Profile: 4-star, No. 9 CB, No. 64 Overall Recruit Analysis: Oregon's final freshman CB commit is Dorian Brew, another player Oregon beat Ohio State to get. Brew is the only player of the three to have already enrolled at Oregon, which is a major asset for his development. On day one, Brew can start to learn and install the Ducks' defensive scheme so that he isn't learning on the fly next fall. Predicting Oregon Ducks Starting Cornerbacks Field Cornerback: Jahlil Florence Boundary Cornerback: Theran Johnson Overall Oregon Ducks Cornerback Outlook There are some questions about where the production is going to come from for Oregon's secondary this season, but going forward, that likely won't be the case. The Ducks have recruited at such an incredibly high level at this position that the foreseeable future should feature limitless talent in the secondary. That could all start this year, but we've got to see who steps up and takes the reins in 2025. Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Anaheim Ducks re-sign defenceman Drew Helleson through 2026–27 season
Photo byThe Anaheim Ducks have locked up one of their promising young blueliners, signing Drew Helleson to a two-year, $2.2 million contract extension through the 2026–27 NHL season. Helleson impressed during the 2024–25 campaign with his steady defensive play and special teams reliability, earning praise as one of the top rookie defencemen in the league. His new deal reflects the Ducks' continued investment in their young core. Drew Helleson earns two-year contract after strong rookie season Drew Helleson, 24, had a breakout season with the Anaheim Ducks in 2024–25, tallying four goals and nine assists in 56 games. He led all rookie defencemen in shorthanded time on ice (54:32) and finished second in both points and assists among first-year blueliners, behind only Montreal Canadiens' Lane Hutson. His poise under pressure and ability to contribute in all situations made him a valuable piece of the Ducks' defense. Originally drafted 47th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in 2019, Helleson was acquired by Anaheim in 2022 as part of the trade that sent veteran defenceman Josh Manson to Colorado. Since then, Helleson has steadily developed into a dependable NHL presence and now figures to be a key part of the Ducks' rebuilding efforts. Drew Helleson's journey from AHL standout to NHL regular Before becoming a regular in Anaheim's lineup, Helleson spent time with the San Diego Gulls, the Ducks' AHL affiliate. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo In 153 AHL games, he registered nine goals and 38 points while refining his defensive skills and gaining crucial pro experience. He made his NHL debut during the 2022–23 season, playing three games and scoring one goal. The Farmington, Minnesota native has built a reputation as a smart, two-way defenceman capable of making quick reads and contributing on both special teams. His shot-blocking and positioning have stood out, and his new contract gives him a solid opportunity to continue growing in Anaheim's system. Ducks continue commitment to youth and development With this extension, the Ducks reaffirm their focus on developing young talent. Helleson joins a growing list of homegrown and acquired players who are expected to form the core of Anaheim's future. The contract provides both stability for the player and flexibility for the team moving forward. Drew Helleson's two-year extension is a reward for his solid rookie season and a sign of Anaheim's trust in his potential. As the Ducks continue their rebuild, Helleson will be counted on to play a larger role and help guide the team's evolving blue line. Also Read: Former NHL goalie Louis Domingue signs one-year deal in KHL Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Boston Globe
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Boston Globe
A Senate vote this week will test the popularity of DOGE spending cuts
The House has already approved Trump's request on a mostly party line 214-212 vote. The Senate has little time to spare to beat the deadline for the president's signature. Another House vote will be needed if senators amend the legislation, adding more uncertainty to the outcome. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Here's a closer look at this week's debate. Advertisement Public media on the chopping block Trump has asked lawmakers to rescind nearly $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which represents the full amount it's due to receive during the next two budget years. The White House says the public media system is politically biased and an unnecessary expense. The corporation distributes more than two-thirds of the money to more than 1,500 locally operated public television and radio stations, with much of the remainder assigned to National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting System to support national programming. The potential fallout from the cuts for local pubic media stations has generated concerns on both sides of the political aisle. Advertisement Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., said he's worried about how the rescissions will hit radio stations that broadcast to Native Americans in his state. He said the vast majority of their funding comes from the federal government. 'They're not political in nature,' Rounds said of the stations. 'It's the only way of really communicating in the very rural areas of our state, and a lot of other states as well.' Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Ala., said that for the tribal radio stations in her state, 'almost to a number, they're saying that they will go under if public broadcasting funds are no longer available to them.' To justify the spending cuts, the Trump administration and Republican lawmakers have cited certain activities they disagree with to portray a wide range of a program's funding as wasteful. In recent testimony, Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought criticized programming aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. He said NPR aired a 2022 program entitled 'What 'Queer Ducks' can teach teenagers about sexuality in the animal kingdom.' He also cited a special town hall that CNN held in 2020 with 'Sesame Street' about combatting racism. Targeting humanitarian aid As part of the package, Trump has asked lawmakers to rescind about $8.3 billion in foreign aid programs that aim to fight famine and disease and promote global stability. Among the targets: — $900 million to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases and strengthen detections systems to prevent wider epidemics. — $800 million for a program that provides emergency shelter, water and sanitation and family reunification for those forced to flee their own country. — $4.15 billion for two programs designed to boost the economies and democratic institutions in developing and strategically important countries. Advertisement — $496 million to provide humanitarian assistance such as food, water and health care for countries hit by natural disasters and conflicts. Some of the health cuts are aimed at a program known as PEPFAR, which President George W. Bush, a Republican, began to combat HIV/AIDS in developing countries. The program is credited with saving 26 million lives and has broad bipartisan support. On PEPFAR, Vought told senators 'these cuts are surgical and specifically preserve life-saving assistance.' But many lawmakers are wary, saying they've seen no details about where specifically the administration will cut. The administration also said some cuts, such as eliminating funding for UNICEF, would encourage international organizations to be more efficient and seek contributions from other nations, 'putting American taxpayers first.' U.S. leaders have often argued that aiding other nations through 'soft power' is not just the right thing to do but also the smart thing. Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., told Vought there is 'plenty of absolute nonsense masquerading as American aid that shouldn't receive another bit of taxpayer funding,' but he called the administration's attempt to root it out 'unnecessarily chaotic.' 'In critical corners of the globe, instead of creating efficiencies, you've created vacuums for adversaries like China to fill,' McConnell told Vought. Trump weighs in The president has issued a warning on his social media site directly aimed at individual Senate Republicans who may be considering voting against the cuts. He said it was important that all Republicans adhere to the bill and in particular defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. 'Any Republican that votes to allow this monstrosity to continue broadcasting will not have my support or Endorsement,' he said. Advertisement For individual Republicans seeking reelection, the prospect of Trump working to defeat them is reason for pause and could be a sign the package is teetering. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., opted to announce he would not seek reelection recently after the president called for a primary challenger to the senator when he voted not to advance Trump's massive tax and spending cut bill. Getting around a filibuster Spending bills before the 100-member Senate almost always need some bipartisan buy-in to pass. That's because the bills need 60 votes to overcome a filibuster and advance. But this week's effort is different. Congress set up a process back when Republican Richard Nixon was president for speedily considering a request to claw back previously approved spending authority. Under those procedures, it takes only a simple Senate majority to advance the president's request to a final vote. It's a rarely employed maneuver. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush, a Republican, had some success with his rescissions request, though the final bill included some cuts requested by the president and many that were not. Trump proposed 38 rescissions in 2018, but the package stalled in the Senate. If senators vote to take up the bill, it sets up the potential for 10 hours of debate plus votes on scores of potentially thorny amendments in what is known as a vote-a-rama. Democrats see the president's request as an effort to erode the Senate filibuster. They warn it's absurd to expect them to work with GOP lawmakers on bipartisan spending measures if Republicans turn around a few months later and use their majority to cut the parts they don't like. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer offered a stern warning in a letter to colleagues: 'How Republicans answer this question on rescissions and other forthcoming issues will have grave implications for the Congress, the very role of the legislative branch, and, more importantly, our country,' Schumer said. Advertisement Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., took note of the warning. 'I was disappointed to see the Democrat leader in his recent Dear Colleague letter implicitly threaten to shut down the government,' Thune said. The Trump administration is likening the first rescissions package to a test case and says more could be on the way if Congress goes along.
USA Today
06-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Ranking every Big Ten football 2026 recruiting class by average player rating (July 6)
The class of 2026 recruiting rankings continue to finalize with each passing week. With the June official visit schedule now complete, most programs have the core of their class committed. Commitments over the coming months will slow to a trickle, those updates only mildly affecting the overall team rankings. Those rankings did receive a major shift earlier this week when Oregon added five-star interior offensive lineman Immanuel Iheanacho. Iheanacho is the Ducks' third five-star commitment in the class. His addition sent the Ducks' relatively small class of 14 commitments up near the nation's top 10. When the cycle concludes later this year, none should be surprised if Oregon approaches the top five. Notably, Oregon currently boasts the Big Ten's best average player rating (93.15). While different from 247Sports' national team rankings, which give significant weight to commit volume, average player rating is an important metric to use when comparing the conference's top-ranked groups. With that, here is Oregon, Wisconsin and every Big Ten recruiting class of 2026 ordered by average player rating, plus where each falls on 247Sports' current national team rankings. Ranking every Big Ten football recruiting class of 2026 by average player rating (July 6) Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
USA Today
30-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Oregon Ducks 4-star CB Xavier Lherisse impresses scouts at OT7 camp
While the Oregon Ducks' 2026 class may be small in size as we transition from June into July, it certainly isn't lacking star power at the top. With 5-star players like Jett Washington and Kendre Harrison, plus high-end 4-stars like Tradarian Ball and Messiah Hampton, the next several months are going to be filled with highlights from recruiting camps, and eventually games from these top prospects. This past weekend, Washington was named the "Alpha Dog" at the OT7 camp by 247Sports for his dominant performance. Washington wasn't the only Duck to turn heads at the camp on Saturday. According to 247Sports' Tom Loy, Ducks' fellow safety commit Xavier Lherisse had a great showing as well, taking one interception all the way to the house and making some players look foolish while trying to get him down. "I think Oregon is getting one of the most talented defensive backs in the country, one of the best pure football players in the secondary," Loy said. "He had, in my opinion, over the last two days, the interception of the weekend. I think they called him down, but he looked untouched. It was an incredible return; he was shaking guys left and right. So, a really strong performance from him." At the moment, Lherisse is one of the lower-rated players in the Ducks' 2026 class, sitting as a 3-star, per 247Sports, but a 4-star on the 247Sports Composite, ranked as the No. 363 overall player and No. 32 safety. However, with more performances like this, it's not hard to imagine him getting a ratings boost in the near future ahead of signing day. Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
