With Kenyon Sadiq off to the NFL, Oregon's tight end unit faces a massive void. Can Jamari Johnson and transfer Andrew Olesh fill the shoes?
It wasn't a question about if Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq would get drafted in the first round, it was a matter of when.
The New York Jets added to impressive rookie class by taking Sadiq with the No. 16 pick. The Jets took the best tight end in the draft, and they took one of the best receivers, trading back into the first round to select Omar Cooper Jr. out of Indiana.
Sadiq won't be easy for the Ducks to replace. His speed created mismatches in the center of the field. He was getting better as a run blocker.
Paolo Uggetti of ESPN believes Oregon will turn to Jamari Johnson to take the role that Sadiq had last season.
Johnson had a good year in his own right in 2025, earning 32 receptions for 510 yards and three touchdowns. He was the fourth-leading receiver on the Ducks.
"Everyone in college football seemed to know just how good Sadiq was, but it still felt like his unique combination of size and skill was underrated," wrote Paolo Uggetti. "It's why losing him to the NFL will be a big blow for the Ducks. Jamari Johnson is ready for his moment in the spotlight, however.
"The sophomore from California had a strong year behind Sadiq, totaling 510 yards and three touchdowns on 32 receptions."
Johnson played for Louisville in 2024 before transferring to Oregon. Uggetti noted that Oregon added a key transfer, tight end Andrew Olesh from Penn State. Olesh and Johnson could be a key tandem for quarterback Dante Moore, who loves targeting his tight ends.
"With Dante Moore returning at quarterback, look for Johnson to be an even bigger part of the offense this coming season," Uggetti wrote.
"Ducks coach Dan Lanning also dipped into the portal to strengthen this position group, snagging the commitment of former five-star prospect Andrew Olesh from Penn State. Olesh didn't play in his first year with the Nittany Lions but presents plenty of intrigue, as well."
Oregon's receivers and running backs have been getting most the hype this offseason. But the tight end position could play a key role in getting the Ducks to the national championship.