Dan Lanning Speaks Candidly on Evan Stewart's Scrimmage Performance

The Oregon Ducks have been competing at a high level ahead of the 2026 season, which includes a scrimmage that took place on Saturday. Following the scrimmage, Oregon coach Dan Lanning caught up with the media to discuss plenty of key moments and players from the event.

A player he was quick to mention was Evan Stewart, a returning wide receiver who had a solid outing on Saturday. Here is what Lanning had to say.

Dan Lanning Talks Evan Stewart Following Scrimmage

Oregon Ducks dan lanning eugene autzen stadium jeremiah mcclellan gatlin bair iverson hooks dakorien moore Evan Stewart — Nov 12, 2024; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks Evan Stewart looks on during media day. Mandatory Credit: Oregon Athletics via Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

"Yeah, had really good camp. Has played really well. I don't think he got quite as many targets today, but he came up with a really big play in our game on the line period there at the end. I mean he's he's done a really good job and obviously those guys have a unique connection," Lanning said.

Why Evan Stewart's Progression is at a Perfect Time

This comment comes at a perfect time, as the Ducks are nearing the end of their offseason. Stewart's return to the offense has been highly anticipated, as the entire wide receiver corps had to change when he suffered his season-ending injury last offseason.

With that being said, Stewart will be called upon when the Ducks need a veteran. He is the veteran of the entire group and has showcased at many different levels why he is an elite wide receiver. While there are many things that highlight who Stewart is as a player, the one thing that catches the attention of many is his ability to be clutch.

Whether it is a third-down or a red zone opportunity, Stewart is a top target, as he is dangerous in his route running. He is also deadly when it comes to his head fakes, which have played the biggest role in some of his wins when he releases from the line of scrimmage. His fast feet and convincing hips have allowed him to fake defenders when in man coverage, which gives him plenty to offer in must-have situations.

Stewart is also an electric receiver when it comes to being able to move around. While it seems likely that the Ducks will use him on the outside, it does seem he could move into the slot at times this season. It would come as no shock if this is something the Ducks do in goal-line situations, especially due to the closeness that comes with playing the position when factoring in the distance between the receiver and the quarterback.

Why Not Getting the Ideal Targets Isn't Concerning

While not receiving plenty of targets can be viewed as a bad sign, it is also something that is expected when playing in a great group of players. The Ducks have three returning starters from last season, if factoring in the fact that Stewart was expected to be a starter. The Ducks have also added some elite freshmen at the wide receiver position, including Jalen Lott and Gatlin Bair. The Ducks also brought in Iverson Hooks, a former UAB wide receiver, who is pushing for a starting job in the Ducks' offense.

While there are still some question marks when it comes to the wide receiver corps, it still seems that this is a top group of players that will have the chance to help the Ducks win their first national championship, especially with gunslinger Dante Moore returning for what seems to be one last ride in Eugene.

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