Oregon left scrambling after top 2026 recruiting target describes rival visit as 'a blast' with 'family'

The recruiting game can be a lot like the dating game for single people. Watching a crush of yours take to another person and be more than friendly can be devastating if you let it be. Or you can embrace the challenge and get into the chase.

The Oregon Ducks haven't been afraid to pursue top recruits even when they're not in the lead before signing day. Head coach Dan Lanning proved he's an elite recruiter and knows how to seal the deal when the Ducks finished second in recruiting class strength in 2025. 

Now, he's looking to add an elite five-star offensive playmaker to be the crown jewel of his 2026 class.

Santa Ana, California, tight end Mark Bowman is getting attention from all the programs that you'd expect for someone compared to Brock Bowers. The 6-foot-4, 230-pounder has offivial visits lined up with Georgia, Texas, Alabama, USC, and Oregon.

But his trip to Ole Miss was quite concerning as far as his messaging and enthusiasm for how Lane Kiffin rolled the red carpet out.

”The OV was a blast,” Bowman stated.

“I would say the biggest takeaway was the family like feel. It didn’t really feel like I was on a recruiting trip it was more just having a good time with the coaches.”

Oregon brought in four-star tight end Vander Ploog in this last class, so his presence could dissuade Bowman from coming to Eugene if Lanning can't sell the pair on coexisting right away.

Here's how On3 insiders broke down the race.

Five-star Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei tight end Mark Bowman wrapped up his Ole Miss official visit on Sunday. Talking with a couple sources, Ole Miss feels like they knocked the visit out of the park. There’s plenty more visits to go, but they at least now feel like they have a shot. Georgia, Texas, Alabama, USC and Oregon have official visits locked in for June. Ole Miss doesn’t sit in the strongest position, but at least can’t be counted out now.