Oregon Ducks' Secret Weapon: Will This Tight End Shock the NFL Draft with Record-Breaking Stats?

EUGENE – As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq is emerging as a strong candidate to be the first tight end selected. His performance has garnered significant attention, but he's not the only standout at Oregon. Tight end Jamari Johnson is also drawing interest as he prepares for the 2027 NFL Draft, with analysts predicting he could be a first-round pick.

Johnson joined the Ducks ahead of the 2025 season and, despite being second on the depth chart behind Sadiq, made a notable impact. He caught 32 passes for 510 yards and scored three touchdowns, all during crucial moments in the season. His first touchdown for Oregon came against No. 3 Penn State in overtime, a play that kept the Ducks competitive. Johnson also shined in the College Football Playoffs, scoring in both the first round against James Madison and in the semifinals versus the Indiana Hoosiers.

With Sadiq projected to go in the first round – potentially even as a top-20 pick – Johnson is poised to step into the spotlight during the 2026 season. Historically, Oregon has produced NFL-ready tight ends, as evidenced by the impressive rookie season of former Duck Terrance Ferguson, who found success with the Los Angeles Rams, scoring three touchdowns.

Assessing Jamari Johnson's Potential

As the 2026 season unfolds, Johnson's opportunity to elevate his draft stock is significant. He has already made a name for himself on social media and among analysts, with many praising his pass-catching abilities. Former Oregon offensive lineman and NFL guard Geoff Schwartz highlighted that if teams were to choose between Johnson and Sadiq in the same draft, some might prefer Johnson due to his superior route running and catching skills. Schwartz noted, “Sometimes it comes down to fit,” suggesting that different teams may prioritize different traits in their tight ends.

I’ve been trying to tell people Jamari Johnson will be a 1st round pick and I believe he will be an All-Pro TE in the NFL. Oregon is a tight end factory. History says if you are a starting TE at Oregon you are an NFL player. https://t.co/t1uqPLXAJK

— George Wrighster III (@georgewrighster) March 23, 2026

Jamari Johnson is a much better pass catcher and route runner than Sadiq. Sadiq is a fantastic blocker. I think if both went out in this draft, some teams would take Johnson over Sadiq. Like Loveland went ahead of Warren. https://t.co/rMCksJHLEk

— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) March 23, 2026

Sadiq, who set records at the NFL Combine with a time of 4.39 seconds in the 40-yard dash and a vertical jump of 43.5 inches, also spoke highly of Johnson's potential. At Oregon’s Pro Day, Sadiq stated, “(Jamari) can do whatever he wants… So, if he wants to be the first 10 off the board, he's going to be the first 10 off the board next year.” This endorsement from a potential first-round pick speaks volumes about Johnson's capabilities.

Moreover, with Drew Mehringer, the former tight ends coach who recruited both players, now serving as the Ducks’ offensive coordinator, Johnson’s development could be further enhanced. This coaching change may provide Johnson with the guidance necessary to maximize his potential as he prepares for the 2027 NFL Draft.

As Oregon's tight end factory continues to produce NFL talent, Johnson’s upcoming season will be closely watched by scouts and analysts alike. With a promising skill set and the right support, he may very well solidify his place as one of the top tight ends in his draft class.