Football Recruiting
News
Oregon’s marquee pre-season commitment is undoubtedly running back Royce Freeman (4-Star/Imperial, CA/Rivals250). Nonetheless, Head Coach Mark Helfrich & Co. remain vigilant and are hot on the trail of another 2014 speedster; all-purpose back Tony James (4-Star/Gainesville, FL/Rivals250).
A master of motion plays, James models his game after another player with his namesake; former Oregon tailback LaMichael James.
“I really liked Oregon… I’ve seen what LaMichael James has done, I’ve always compared myself to him at the running back (position),” said James. “It’s a great program overall and I like the spread (offense)…”
No stranger to the open field, the 5-foot 9, 175-pound. James finds holes in the smallest of gaps, making him an ideal fit for the Oregon offense. While residing in the South, James will journey cross country in late September to visit Autzen Stadium in what could be an eye-opening experience.
To view James’ highlights, click here.
Another East-coaster, athlete Montae Nicholson (4-Star/Monroeville, PA/Rivals250) is known to have heavy interest in coming to Eugene. Currently a 6’2, 202 lb. two-way prep that could play multiple positions at the next level, Nicholson may end up at receiver due to impeccable ball-tracking skills and the ability to block down field. Currently extending an Oregon offer, wide receivers coach Matt Lubick’s next order of business is to lock down a visit. While distance may be a factor, Oregon’s newest recruiting pitches (i.e. Operations Center) seem to take the edge of a long trip, stay tuned!
“I’ve always wanted to be a Duck, that’s where I want to go,” said Talia. “Nothing has changed my commitment.”
The 6-5 Talia was one of Oregon’s first commitments of the 2014 cycle and maintains that he is gearing up for what will be a fantastic career in Lighting Yellow and Thunder Green.
“I’m up to 270 pounds now, I’m getting bigger but I’m as fast I’ve ever been,” said Talia.
Talia is expected in Eugene on October 26th for his official visit to the Oregon campus.
To view Talia highlights, please click here.
One of offensive line coach Steve Greatwood’s first targets, Sam Jones (3-Star/Highlands Ranch, CO) may be inching closer to an Oregon commitment.
“(Oregon was) one of the first to contact me,” said Jones. “I loved my visit and the coaches out there. Oregon has a lot going for them.”
Jones, whose 6-5, 275-pound frame continues to grow stronger, is a prototypical lineman found in Oregon’s system. Look for Greatwood to put the finishing touches on Jones’ recruitment later this fall season.
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Mark Flores, a Salem, OR resident, is a Firefighter/Paramedic and an avid Oregon Ducks fan. Prior to the fire service, Flores, a graduate of nearby Corban University, spent over seven years in professional journalism including a stint at the Statesman Journal in Salem and held the position of Sports Editor for the Hilltop News (Corban). A career transition however never dampened his love of writing and FishDuck is now his source to share his love of Mighty Oregon. Flores brings detailed knowledge of Oregon recruiting to the FishDuck team and welcomes your feedback.
