In a dramatic and highly anticipated moment, Na’eem Offord, a five-star cornerback in the class of 2025, announced his commitment to the Oregon Ducks on the first day of the Early National Signing Period.
Offord flipped from his prior commitment to Ohio State, leaving Ryan Day and the Buckeyes on the outside looking in.
The announcement unfolded in theatrical fashion.
Offord initially stepped out of the auditorium at his High School, leaving the crowd waiting in suspense.
When he returned, a projector screen descended, revealing a video featuring Oregon head coach Dan Lanning narrating highlights from the Ducks’ football program.
After the video ended, Offord raised the stakes by donning an Auburn Tigers hat. (Isn’t that getting annoying?)
Moments later, he tossed it aside and unveiled a green Ducks hat, solidifying his decision to join Oregon.
Offord’s commitment propels Oregon’s 2025 recruiting class to the No. 2 spot in On3’s team rankings.
Offord’s decision came on the heels of another major flip for the Ducks -five-star quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, who switched his commitment from Cal earlier in the day.
Offord had made an official visit to Oregon on June 14, followed by a return trip to Eugene on October 12, coinciding with the Ducks’ thrilling 32-31 win over Ohio State in a key Big Ten matchup.
That victory appears to have played a symbolic role in Oregon’s triumph in securing Offord’s commitment.
Offord initially committed to Ohio State on February 4, but described his recruitment as a “three-man race” involving Oregon, Auburn, and the Buckeyes.
Speaking with Rivals, he noted, “All three programs brought something special to the table. Oregon just felt like home in the end.”
Offord also made official visits to Auburn (May 31), Alabama (June 7), and Ohio State (June 21) during the recruiting process.
Despite denying rumors earlier this year that his recruitment was “wide open,” Offord ultimately reconsidered his options and kept the door open to Oregon and Auburn while remaining committed to Ohio State until Wednesday.
Offord joins a star-studded 2025 recruiting class for Oregon that already includes five-star wide receiver Dakorien Moore and safety Tre McNutt.
Other notable names in the class include four-star linebacker Nasir Wyatt, offensive lineman Ziyare Addison, cornerback Dorian Brew, and quarterback Akili Smith Jr., among others.
Offord also fielded offers from powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, LSU, and Clemson.
Reflecting on his decision, Offord said, “Oregon’s vision for me, both on and off the field, just stood out. I’m excited to be part of something special.”
With Offord now onboard, the Ducks have solidified their status as a national recruiting powerhouse, signaling their intent to compete for championships on a yearly basis.
Meanwhile, losing Offord pours extra salt in the wound for Ohio State who is having a brutal week to say the least.
While some had a suspicion that Offord would flip, the finality of losing him delivers an extra blow for Ryan Day who is feeling the heat from every direction following the Buckeyes’ nightmare loss to Michigan last Saturday.
What are your thoughts on Day and the state of Ohio State’s program???
