Dan Lanning and the Oregon Ducks made a significant mark in college football last season, reaching the College Football Playoff and pushing hard before being eliminated by the formidable Ohio State Buckeyes in the Rose Bowl. This performance not only showcased their resilience but also set the stage for a promising future.
As the spring transfer portal remains a pivotal point in college football, Oregon is a team to watch. Lanning’s commitment to elevating the program means he’s always on the lookout to bolster his roster. However, with the potential for new talent to arrive comes the lingering threat of losing key players.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Ducks experienced a notable departure. Dual-sport athlete Pleasant has decided to move on, marking the end of a brief stint with Oregon. Over the past two seasons, his contributions have been modest, registering a total of five tackles, one forced fumble, and a defended pass. While impressive, these numbers hardly reflect the expectations that surrounded him when he first committed to Oregon.
A former four-star prospect, Pleasant garnered attention for his accolades coming out of high school, ranking as the No. 8 cornerback and No. 105 overall player in the nation in the 2023 recruiting class. He also stood out as California’s ninth-ranked recruit during that cycle.
Known for his remarkable speed, Pleasant’s athletic prowess was highlighted during his high school career. He etched his name in the record books by breaking California’s state record for the 100 meters, clocking in at an impressive 10.14 seconds—an achievement that came during the 2022 CIF Southern Section Masters meet.
Despite his promise as both a football player and a track star, Pleasant’s journey with the Ducks has not unfolded as expected. Now, with a desire for greater opportunity, he’ll seek to leverage his talents elsewhere, carrying his impressive speed into his next chapter. For Oregon, this particular transition may open up opportunities for other players to step up as the Ducks continue to build on their solid foundation.
