Oregon’s 2024 recruiting class just got a significant boost with the commitment of five-star receiver Gatlin Bair. While his commitment is undoubtedly exciting, it comes with an intriguing twist – Bair has plans to embark on an LDS mission, postponing his enrollment until 2026, as reported by 247Sports.
Even though his actual arrival in Eugene may be a few years away, Bair’s commitment serves as a cornerstone for the Ducks to build upon in the future. Head coach Dan Lanning, now entering his third season with the team, continues to make waves on the recruiting front.
Bair’s credentials are impressive, as he is regarded as the No. 6 receiver in his class and holds the No. 27 overall prospect ranking by 247Sports. The decision to commit to Oregon followed his decommitment from Boise State, which came after the Broncos parted ways with coach Andy Avalos. Bair’s talent didn’t go unnoticed, as Michigan also actively pursued him.
Notably, Bair holds the distinction of being the highest-rated prospect ever hailing from the state of Idaho, according to 247Sports. Furthermore, his recent ascent to a five-star status reflects his burgeoning potential.
To gain further insight into Bair’s game, 247Sports scouting analyst Gabe Brooks provided an in-depth analysis:
“Explosive multi-sport star with three-phase playmaking experience who projects as a dynamic receiver. Lean, athletic build with an enormous catch radius given 6-1+ height and elite length (34-inch arm). High-flying basketball context. Owner of rare track and field athleticism for a football prospect with a 10.15 100 and 20.47 200 (also long jumps). Acceleration and top-end speed show on the field. Mixes speed-changing nuance and route-leverage awareness with that volatile explosiveness. Shows impressive ball-tracking ability and adjustment acumen with mid-air body control and spatial awareness. Creative run-after-catch athlete who can stack cuts across the field or spin off tacklers. Faces significant jump in competition coming from lower-level high school football. However, performed well during All-American Bowl week, an event that often puts small-school athletes in a ‘deer in the headlights’ situation. Not the case here. Will need to get stronger to beat press and calibrate athleticism to other elite athletes on a consistent basis, but projects as a high-major impact player with long-term NFL Draft early-round potential.”
Bair’s versatility is evident from his participation in basketball and track at Burley High School. His journey in football began as a freshman, where he showcased his skills on both offense and defense. However, with his impressive 6-foot-1 frame, speed, and athleticism, Bair’s future at the collegiate level is unquestionably in the receiver role.
As Oregon welcomes Gatlin Bair into their football family, the anticipation builds for his eventual arrival and the impact he will make on the Ducks’ program.