Freshman Duo Emerges for Oregon Ducks at Wide Receiver

EUGENE, Oregon – With top-returning receiver Evan Stewart injured and potentially out for the entire season, many questions surrounded the Oregon Ducks‘ wide receiver unit entering the 2025 season. After four weeks of play, true freshman Dakorien Moore and transfer Malik Benson have stepped up to fill the void.

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Moore and Benson are currently ranked among the top-graded receivers in the nation. Moore, who was the top recruit in the 2025 class, has lived up to the hype, boasting the third-highest PFF score of 80.9 among freshmen.

Moore has demonstrated a variety of skills early in his collegiate career, recording 12 receptions for 207 yards and two touchdowns. He has also showcased his versatility by rushing three times for 42 yards and a touchdown. One of his touchdown catches was a 22-yard completion during the opening drive against the Oregon State Beavers.

“What makes him good as he catches it, right? He’s been a guy that can win in those one-on-ones,” said Oregon coach Dan Lanning. “He’s a tough guy to guard, and if you’re even, he’s gonna be able to beat you.”

Moore shares the team lead in 20-plus yard receptions with Benson, each with four. Benson’s stats mirror Moore’s closely; he has 14 receptions for 201 yards and two touchdowns with a PFF score of 76.9, ranking within the nation’s top 10.

“We have a lot of vets, we have a lot of young guys,” quarterback Dante Moore said about his receivers. “(Gary Bryant Jr.) and Malik are taking (Moore) and (Cooper Perry) under their wing to help them prepare for games.”

The connection between quarterback Dante Moore and Benson has flourished off the field, contributing positively to the team’s offensive performance. “When the ball is in the air, he’s always gonna make a play,” Dante Moore said. “He’s been at Alabama and FSU, and he’s not taking this for granted.”

The Ducks, currently ranked No. 6 and 4-0 this season, will face No. 3 Penn State next week in a crucial match that could determine their odds for the College Football Playoff National Championship.