Oregon Spring Preview: Offensive Line a Mix of Returners and Newcomers
We're continuing our Oregon Ducks football spring preview with a look at the offensive.
It's a position that's seen a lot of change this offseason both from a coaching and personnel standpoint.
Adrian Klemm is out and A'lique Terry is in, with veteran offensive line coach Mike Cavanaugh coming to Eugene with him to lend a hand.
Almost all of Oregon's starting offensive line from a year ago is gone--with Alex Fosyth, Ryan Walk, T.J. Bass and Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu all taking their shot at the 2023 NFL Draft.
But the cupboard is far from bare in Eugene despite a massive wave of departures.
Oregon Offensive Line
There's definitely a theme of a new wave along Oregon's offensive line in 2023.
After being a model of consistency for the past three or so years the loss of multiple veterans will shake up the group.
Steven Jones highlights the returners for Oregon. Despite missing almost all of the 2022 season he should be viewed as one of the top players in his group. With Cornelius and Conerly Jr. in the fold he may project as more of a guard in 2023 after spending time at both guard and tackle the last five years.
Marcus Harper II filled in admirably for the injured Jones, carving out a role as a starting left guard for the Ducks in 2022. The 6-foot-3, 313-pound offensive lineman was counting the days since he last contributed in a game and was more than ready when his name was called which could and probably should result in a spot along the starting line.
Jackson Powers-Johnson is another exciting player to watch. He played all over the line during this first two years in Eugene but could end up being the team's starting center after losing Forsyth. His strength, versatility and overall passion for the game will all be an asset. Add in that A'lique Terry was central in his recruitment and I'll bet he's fired up to be coaching JPJ once again.
Josh Conerly Jr. will be a true sophomore but he proved that he was too good to keep off the field in 2022, appearing in all 13 games. He primarily played on the left side of the line but spring and fall camp will likely go a long way in determining if Terry thinks he's good enough to be trusted with the crucial job of protecting Bo Nix's blind side.
Ajani Cornelius comes to Oregon as one of the best right tackles in college football. That said, it's likely that could be his home to replace Big Sala from a year ago. He brings a ton of playing experience with him that will help elevate the group.
Junior Angilau played his football at Texas working on the interior. He didn't play at all in 2022 thanks to injury but he played on both sides of the line at guard during the 2021 season.
Listed at a massive 6'6", 311 pounds (Texas 2022), he should be a mainstay for the Ducks in 2023.
Obviously there's more than just six offensive linemen on the roster but these are the ones who I think will play the biggest role next season. Faaope Laloulu could find his way into the rotation as another veteran at the position and Sir Mells has been experimenting with the offensive line ahead of spring practice.
There's going to be a lot of mixing and matching going on this spring but this group has all the pieces it needs to be the best offensive line in the Pac-12 once again.
After all, that's the standard that's been set right?
READ MORE
Oregon spring preview: Bo Nix returns with Heisman Hype
Oregon spring preview: Running back still an embarrassment of riches
Oregon spring preview: Ducks looking for new No. 2 WR
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