#ProDucks Check in: Former Oregon playmakers show out and former first round pick suffers knee injury
Former Oregon legends has a good showing in the final week of the preseason.
The NFL preseason wrapped up with several ex-Oregon standouts putting on strong performances. From a first touchdown celebration to a reunion of old teammates, the Ducks were well-represented across the league.
Tez Johnson Finds the End Zone
Rookie wide receiver Tez Johnson had his breakout moment for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, catching all eight of his targets for 58 yards and his first professional touchdown in a 23-19 loss to Buffalo.
Lined up in the slot, Johnson slipped out on a quick flat route, hauling in a one-yard score from quarterback Kyle Trask. What came next was just as memorable: Johnson sprinted across the end zone and launched into a backflip.
“Ever since I got drafted, I said I was going to do a back flip or jump into the crowd,” Johnson told The Tampa Bay Times. “As soon as I scored, the backflip popped in my head. I didn’t think I was going to get that high, but the adrenaline took over.”
It was a fitting moment for the Pinson, Alabama native, who now heads into Week 1 looking to carry his momentum forward alongside fellow Duck Bucky Irving when Tampa opens the regular season September 7 at Atlanta.
Gabriel and Ferguson Reunite in Cleveland
Over in Cleveland, two former Oregon teammates squared off in what felt like a Duck reunion. Now with the Browns, Dillon Gabriel and Terrance Ferguson of the Rams shared a midfield embrace after their preseason finale, just weeks after Gabriel attended Ferguson’s wedding.
Both made their mark on the game. Gabriel orchestrated an 86-yard scoring drive, capping it with his first NFL touchdown pass on a three-yard toss to receiver Gage Larvadain. Ferguson, meanwhile, reminded everyone of his big-play ability, recording two catches for 48 yards, including a slick 39-yard fade route down the sideline.
Harmon Injury
Things were not all positive for the #ProDucks as Pittsburgh Steelers rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon suffered a knee injury during the preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers. He was carted off the field after twisting his knee while pressuring the quarterback. Initially, there were concerns about a serious injury, but subsequent evaluations revealed a sprained MCL. Head coach Mike Tomlin described the injury as “week to week.” Harmon is not expected to be placed on injured reserve.
Harmon, the 21st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, had been projected as a starter on the defensive line. Depending on his recovery, he could return as early as Week 3 against New England or after the team’s Week 6 bye.
