Dan Lanning eyes a recruiting powerhouse as experts project Tennessee blue-chipper Tae Walden Jr. to bring his elite two-way playmaking and 6-foot-2 frame to Eugene’s secondary.
As the Oregon Ducks and head coach Dan Lanning continue to navigate their way through the 2027 recruiting class, the program could be on the brink of landing another huge commitment this summer.
The Ducks' 2027 class is loaded with talent, thanks to the impressive efforts from Lanning and the coaching staff. And with the month of July just around the corner, there’s one name that Oregon fans should keep a close eye on this offseason.
According to Rivals’ Seth Wiltfong and Chad Simmon, the Ducks are projected to land 2027 four-star athlete Tae Walden Jr., a dynamic prospect out of the state of Tennessee.
Can Oregon Secure Walden?
As one of the top athletes in the 2027 recruiting cycle, Walden has quickly emerged as a massive target for Oregon this summer. The elite playmaker is currently the No. 4 prospect in the state of Tennessee, as well as the No. 6 athlete in the 2027 class, per 247Sports’ Composite.
Walden, during his 2025 season at Collierville High School, became a key piece for the Dragons as a pass catcher and a defensive back. On offense, Walden recorded 42 receptions for 912 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, while also notching 28 tackles, 17 pass breakups, and five interceptions on the defensive side of the ball.
Standing at 6-foot-2, 165 lbs., Walden’s excellent blend of size and athleticism allows him to be a lethal threat on both offense and defense. His savviness as a route runner and incredible ball tracking ability complement his physical attributes, but with the Ducks seemingly looking to use him as a cornerback at the college level, Walden must add on to his frame in order to compete against some of the best wide receivers in the country.
If Oregon is able to secure Walden for its already-impressive 2027 class, the Ducks could easily be on their way to finishing with a top-three class. The potential addition of the Tennessee native would also give Lanning his second cornerback commit in the 2027 class, with four-star, in-state prospect Josiah Molden being the lone commit at his position.
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