Oregon Football returned to the practice fields at the Hatfield Dowlin-Complex in Eugene on Thursday, marking the first of fifteen spring practices that will be held throughout March and April.
Duck fans will be relieved to know that one of the team's top running backs, Noah Whittington , took the field wearing spider pads and a helmet alongside his teammates.
The senior running back hasn't played since September 23, 2023, when he suffered a season-ending injury in Oregon's 42-6 blowout win over the Colorado Buffaloes.
Meeting with reporters following Thursday's practice, head coach Dan Lanning provided an update on Whittington's recovery, which should be encouraging for Duck fans.
"We're being conscientious of where he's at," Lanning said. "They're doing a really good job in the treatment program. He's way ahead of schedule. Has done a really good job there, but we'll be conscientious through that with spring."
In Whittington's absence, junior tailback Jordan James stepped into a larger role alongside Bucky Irving. He was up to the task, finishing the 2023 season with 107 carries for 759 rushing yards (7.1 YPC) and 11 rushing touchdowns. While Whittington works back to full health, the Ducks welcome another experienced running back this spring in Northwest Missouri State transfer Jay Harris.
Lanning was also asked about the status of sophomore cornerback Jahlil Florence, who reportedly did not practice on Thursday.
Florence missed the final three games of the season last year and seems to be progressing at a rate similar to Whittington.
"Really same thing (as Noah Whittington)," the head coach said. "We're gonna be able to have these guys do what they can do but be smart in the same process."
The Ducks have added multiple cornerbacks this offseason through the transfer portal and high school ranks. The transfer haul is headlined by Washington transfer and 2023 first-team All-Pac-12 cornerback Jabbar Muhammad as well as UTSA transfer Kameryn Alexander. Muhammad is expected to join the team after spring break, while Alexander is already enrolled and practicing.
As for the prep additions, Dakoda Fields is an early enrollee that's with the team, while fellow All-American Ify Obidegwu has yet to arrive. Oregon also added elite junior college standout Sione Laulea III, who has enrolled.
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