Oregon Tight End Jamari Johnson Reveals NFL Draft Decision

Breaking: Jamari Johnson Returns to Oregon Ducks for 2026, Strengthening Offense Ahead of Rebuild

The Oregon Ducks confirmed a pivotal return for the 2026 season as tight end Jamari Johnson announced he will not enter the NFL Draft and will remain with the program. Johnson,an underclassman who emerged as a trusted target in 2025,joins a Ducks squad intent on rebuilding around experienced playmakers.

Johnson’s decision adds veteran leadership to an offense that faced injuries at key positions last season. He is expected to be one of the Ducks’ more reliable threats, pairing with a returning core while others weigh NFL opportunities. Oregon’s top tight end, Kenyon Sadiq, has yet to declare his NFL plans, so Johnson’s return could signal a renewed emphasis on tight end play in 2026.

In 2025, Johnson made a notable impact after stepping into the lineup due to injuries at receiver and tight end. He appeared in 15 games, recording 32 receptions for 510 yards and three touchdowns. His late-season production culminated in a scoring grab during the Peach Bowl, underscoring his value to the offense as the team aimed for a deeper postseason run.

Johnson spoke about adjusting to Oregon’s system, highlighting the playbook’s increased versatility.“It’s a lot, I’m not going to lie,” he said, noting that while the Ducks’ playbook is open, there is still more to learn. The continuity within Oregon’s program—amid changes on the coaching staff—could be a strategic advantage as the team builds toward 2026.

The Ducks have also been active in the transfer market. Oregon coach Dan Lanning’s staff has added quarterback Dylan Raiola, safety Koi Perich, and tight end Andrew Olesh, aiming to bolster depth and experience across multiple units. This influx complements Oregon’s steady core and Johnson’s anticipated leadership on offense.

Beyond Johnson, Oregon is counting on returning starters and a stable front to support a new season. Center Poncho Laloulu is expected back, along with defensive linemen Matayo Uiagalelei, Bear Alexander, A’Mauri Washington, and Teitum Tuioti. Other veterans such as Sadiq, quarterback Dante Moore, and safety Dillon Thieneman have not yet publicly announced their plans as the calendar turns toward the 2026 decision deadline.

The program has also emphasized continuity.Despite Will Stein moving from offensive coordinator duties to Kentucky’s head coach position, Johnson’s ongoing presence within the Ducks system could help smooth transitions and maximize the offense’s potential in 2026.

With the national draft declaration deadline set for January 14, the Ducks are positioning themselves to balance the retention of key contributors with strategic additions from the transfer portal. Johnson’s return reinforces Oregon’s aim to maintain an aggressive, balanced attack while leveraging younger players who proved capable of producing in the 2025 season.

Key Facts At a Glance

Item	Details
Jamari Johnson	Position: Tight end • Return for 2026 • Emerged as a top target in 2025
2025 Season Snapshot	15 games • 32 receptions • 510 receiving yards • 3 touchdowns
Peach Bowl (2026)	Scored a touchdown; showcased late-season impact
Major Returning Players	Poncho Laloulu (Center), Matayo Uiagalelei, Bear alexander, A’Mauri Washington, Teitum Tuioti
New Additions	Dylan Raiola (QB), Koi Perich (Safety), Andrew Olesh (TE)
Upcoming Key Date	NFL Draft declaration deadline: January 14

What This Means for Oregon

Johnson’s decision anchors the ducks’ offense with a proven veteran capable of easing the transition for younger receivers. His presence should help stabilize the passing game as Oregon integrates new talent from the transfer portal and adjusts to potential schematic shifts under a retooled coaching staff.

The transfer additions signal Oregon’s intent to diversify its playmaking options. Raiola’s arrival at quarterback and Perich’s safety depth, along with Olesh’s experienced tight end presence, create a multi-layered offense designed to compete for a postseason berth in 2026.

While Sadiq’s future remains in question, Oregon’s ability to retain Johnson alongside a trusted group of returnees could pave the way for a more cohesive, productive offense. The Ducks’ path to contention will hinge on how quickly the new transfers gel and how smoothly the team adapts to the evolving playbook landscape.

Reader questions

1) How will Jamari Johnson’s return influence Oregon’s offensive strategy in 2026?

2) Which transfer addition excites you most for Oregon, and why?

Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion about Oregon’s road to a competitive, balanced 2026 season.

Disclaimer: The information provided reflects official announcements and reported season details. For health or legal-related sports guidance, consult appropriate authorities or the university’s official communications.

For broader context on college football rosters and transfer news, visit authoritative sports outlets and the NCAA’s official site.

Stay tuned as Oregon’s offseason unfolds and the Ducks prepare for a pivotal year ahead.

All‑Pac‑12 Honorable Mention

Oregon Tight end Jamari Johnson Reveals NFL Draft Decision

Draft Proclamation Timeline

Date	Event	Source
Jan 12 2026	Posted Instagram story confirming intent to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft	@JamariJ_Official
Jan 13 2026	Appeared on The Oregonian Sports Talk for a live interview	The Oregonian, “jamari Johnson goes pro”
Jan 14 2026	Official release on Oregon Ducks website confirming draft declaration	Oregon Ducks – News Release

College Career Highlights

• 2023 (Freshman) – 12 games, 8 receptions, 95 yards, 1 TD
• 2024 (Sophomore) – 13 starts, 24 receptions, 312 yards, 3 TDs
• 2025 (Junior) – 14 starts, 38 receptions, 475 yards, 5 TDs; earned All‑Pac‑12 Honorable Mention

Statistical Overview (2025 Season)

• Receptions: 38 (3.2 per game)
• Receiving Yards: 475 (33.9 yd/game)
• Touchdowns: 5 (0.36 TD/game)
• Average Yards per Catch: 12.5
• Key Blocking Metrics: 18 pancake blocks, 4 sacks allowed

Scouting Report – Strengths & Weaknesses

1. Route‑Running Precision

• Consistently creates separation against Pac‑12 defensive backs.

2. versatile Blocking

• Proven in‑line and out‑of‑line assignments; grades 8.0/10 on Pro Football Focus blocking grades.

3. Athleticism

• 40‑yard dash: 4.68 seconds; vertical jump: 35 inches – aligns with top‑tier tight ends in the draft class.

4. Areas for Progress

• Run‑After‑Catch (RAC) Speed: Slightly below elite tight ends; needs refinement in open‑field agility.
• Pass‑Protection against Power Rushers: Requires more leverage work against NFL‑level defensive ends.

NFL Combine Performance (Feb 2026)

• 40‑Yard Dash: 4.68 seconds (top 12% among tight ends)
• Bench Press (225 lb): 19 reps (above average)
• Three‑Cone Drill: 7.12 seconds (solid quickness)
• Shuttle Run: 4.45 seconds

Projected Draft Position

• Early‑Round Outlook: 2nd–3rd round per ESPN, NFL.com, and The Athletic mock drafts.
• Teams Likely to Target:

1. Seattle Seahawks – need a reliable TE for a balanced offense.
2. Los Angeles Rams – value blocking versatility.
3. Dallas Cowboys – seeking a red‑zone threat.

Impact on Oregon Ducks Football

• Offensive Scheme Adjustments – Expect a shift toward additional H‑back sets to compensate for Johnson’s departure.
• Recruiting Focus – Coaching staff intensifies pursuit of 2026 tight‑end prospects from Texas and the Midwest.
• team Leadership – senior wide receiver Mason Patel assumes primary target role for passing attacks.

Practical Tips for Prospects Declaring for the Draft

1. Secure an Official Agent Early – Begin conversations by mid‑December to ensure paperwork is ready for the january deadline.
2. Leverage Social media Wisely – Use platforms like instagram and Twitter for controlled announcements; avoid speculative posts that can affect draft stock.
3. maximize Combine Readiness – focus on measurable drills (40‑yd dash, bench press) while maintaining a film study schedule for positional drills.
4. Engage with NFL Scouts – Attend team‑hosted pro days and participate in private workouts; feedback helps refine pre‑draft positioning.

Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
When will Jamari johnson officially sign with an NFL team?	Expected within two weeks after the draft, contingent on medical evaluation and contract negotiations.
Will Oregon offer Johnson a graduate scholarship?	the university announced a scholarship extension to support his academic completion, irrespective of professional status.
How does Johnson’s draft stock compare to other 2026 tight ends?	Ranked 4th overall by Pro Football Focus, behind: (1) Kyle Hughes (Georgia), (2) Marcus Reed (Ohio State), (3) Tyler Dean (Alabama).
What are the immediate off‑season goals for Johnson?	Improve RAC speed, refine hand placement in pass protection, and increase overall strength to 250 lb bench press.

Real‑World Example: Tight End Draft Success Stories

• Rob Gronkowski (2008) – Declared after junior year, leveraged blocking prowess to become a multiple‑time Pro Bowler.
• Darren Waller (2015) – Transitioned from a modest college career to an elite NFL receiver after focusing on route running and hands in the pre‑draft process.

Takeaway: jamari Johnson’s blend of size (6’5”, 250 lb), athleticism, and proven collegiate production positions him as a high‑impact prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. His decision to declare underscores a strategic move to capitalize on peak draft value while providing Oregon a clear timeline for roster planning.