4 current Oregon Ducks freshmen align similarly to past legends, and it could mean great things for the future
These four true freshman compare favorably to these past Duck legends.
It’s rare for true freshmen to not just contribute — but dominate — at a program as talent-rich as Oregon. Yet that’s precisely what’s happening in Eugene this season. The Ducks’ 2025 freshman class is proving to be something special, producing impact players who look less like first-year newcomers and more like seasoned veterans.
Running backs Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr., wide receiver Dakorien Moore, and defensive back Brandon Finney Jr. have all burst onto the scene with performances that have fans and analysts alike drawing comparisons to Duck greats of the past.
Through just half a season, these four have established themselves not just as standout freshmen, but as some of the most dynamic players in the nation — regardless of class. And as the Ducks continue their push through the Big Ten slate, there’s growing belief that this might be the best freshman class in Oregon football history. Below are my comparisons of these elite freshmen to former Duck legends.
Player comparisons
Jordon Davison RB
Comparison: Royce Freeman
Davison has been a revelation for the Ducks and leads the team in rushing touchdowns with 10. He is a bigger back and is excellent at running between the tackles and bouncing off defenders, displaying outstanding contact balance. The comparison to Royce Freeman makes a ton of sense given their running style. While neither back is overly explosive, they excel at picking up yards with good vision and getting downhill in a hurry. Davison actually has a bit more juice than Freeman and finishes runs better as well.
Dierre Hill Jr. RB
Comparison: Kenjon Barner
Speed, explosiveness, and a smooth running style are the qualities that have made Dierre Hill Jr. so dangerous with the football. They are also the same qualities that allowed Duck legend Kenjon Barner to be so good for the Ducks throughout his career. Both players lack size and pure running strength, but they are patient runners who have very good instincts and speed to take it to the house whenever they touch the football.
Dakorien Moore WR
Comparison: Bralon Addison
Perhaps one of the most underrated receivers in Oregon’s history, Bralon Addison was always a big play waiting to happen. He possessed rare movement skills and was dangerous with the ball in his hands, consistently making defenders miss. Like Addison, Darkorien Moore is dangerous with the ball in his hands and has excellent ball skills and body control. While both players lack size on the outside, they win with excellent positioning, ball skills, and natural playmaking ability.
Brandon Finney Jr. CB
Comparison: Christian Gonzalez
A long, explosive, and instinctive cover corner, Gonzalez was viewed as an early-round draft pick with the Ducks and has excelled in the NFL throughout his career. Finney Jr. displays those same qualities and projects as a high-end draft pick when he can enter. Finney Jr. has not only been one of the best freshman corners in the country, but he has also been one of the best overall, no matter the grade. He has developed into a lockdown corner where teams have wisely decided not to test his side.
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