Dan Lanning’s hot streak continues as four-star cornerback Hayden Stepp narrows his list to three finalists. The Ducks now battle Alabama and Cal for Nevada's premier defensive playmaker.
The Oregon Ducks and head coach Dan Lanning have done an incredible job thus far within the 2027 recruiting cycle this offseason.
As of this month, Oregon possesses a consensus top-five recruiting class in the 2027 cycle, with five-star wide receiver Dakota Guerrant and four-star quarterback Will Mencl leading the bunch. Luckily for Lanning and the program, the longtime head coach has shown no signs of stopping his hot stretch on the recruiting trail this summer.
According to Rivals’ Hayes Fawcett on Wednesday, 2027 four-star cornerback Hayden Stepp is down to three schools, with the Ducks being featured in the mix for the highly regarded talent.
Can Oregon Land Stepp?
Stepp, as one of the top remaining targets for Oregon and Lanning, is one of the top defenders in the 2027 recruiting cycle. Currently, the prolific defensive back is the No. 7-ranked cornerback in the 2027 recruiting class, as well as the No. 1 prospect in the state of Nevada, per 247Sports’ Composite.
Throughout his first three seasons at Bishop Gorman High School, Stepp has proven himself to be a phenomenal lockdown cornerback, recording 58 tackles, 14 pass deflections, and three interceptions. With his stout play at a high school known for its development of football players, the Nevada native was able to participate in both the Under Armour All-America Game and The Opening Finals in 2026, granting him the opportunity to compete against some of the best prospects in the country.
Standing at 6-foot-3.5, 185 lbs., Stepp already possesses an ideal frame to play the cornerback position at the college level. His rare combination of size and athleticism allows him to excel in man and zone coverage, while also making him a matchup nightmare in press coverage. To make matters more interesting, Stepp still has plenty of room to grow by the time he arrives at college.
However, in order for Lanning and his coaching staff to land the talented defensive back, the program must compete against the Alabama Crimson Tide and the California Golden Bears this summer.
Stepp took his official visit to Eugene earlier this month, and with his decision taking place on Jul 1st, Ducks fans should keep tabs on the young prospect.
Ducks Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Oregon Ducks. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.
