ESPN labels Oregon Ducks star as one of the top transfers in the country to watch during the 2025 season

The Oregon Ducks are looking to prove in 2025 that their 2024 success was no fluke—and that they mean business in the Big Ten.

Oregon is moving on from the Dillon Gabriel era, just as they did from the Bo Nix era. Now, the Ducks are expected to hand the reins to another talented quarterback—likely Dante Moore—to lead the offense.

During the winter transfer portal window, Oregon made several key additions. None was bigger than the move they made to protect their next quarterback.

ESPN names Oregon OT Isaiah World as a top transfer to watch

“6. Isaiah World, OT, Oregon: The Ducks landed lots of proven players via the portal, including running back Makhi Hughes (Tulane) and safety Dillon Thieneman (Purdue), but World is the one who has pro scouts buzzing. The 6-foot-8 left tackle was a three-year starter at Nevada and should be an excellent replacement for first-round pick Josh Conerly Jr.” — ESPN

World has a chance to be a special player for the Ducks in his final season of college eligibility. We’re talking about a potential future first-round pick—an elite addition to the offensive line that Oregon secured through the portal. He had significant interest from other top programs, including Ohio State, making him a crucial get for the Ducks.

After losing both starting tackles to the NFL from last season’s team, World fills a glaring need on Oregon’s roster. With him in the fold, the Ducks once again boast a team capable of contending for the Big Ten title—and a spot in the College Football Playoff. Oregon fell short after a perfect regular season last year, they will look to take the next step during the 2025 season.