The Oregon Ducks are preparing for their matchup against the Minnesota Golden Gophers this Friday at Autzen Stadium, with kickoff set for 6 p.m. PT. As the eighth-ranked team in the nation, Oregon is facing challenges due to injuries impacting their roster.
In the lead-up to their recent victory over Iowa, the Ducks experienced surprise absences on their availability report. Key players including wide receiver Dakorien Moore, tight end Kenyon Sadiq, offensive tackle Alex Harkey, and linebacker Devon Jackson were all sidelined for that game. Additionally, wide receiver Gary Bryant Jr. suffered an injury during the first quarter against the Hawkeyes, further complicating the Ducks” offensive plans.
Head coach Dan Lanning has been tight-lipped regarding injury updates, stating, “I”m not going to get into injuries. If they”re ready, they”ll play.” This leaves fans and analysts speculating about the status of the injured players ahead of the Minnesota game.
Regarding Moore, reports indicated that he tweaked his knee during practice prior to the Iowa game, and while it is not considered a season-ending injury, there is no clear timeline for his return. Sadiq”s injuries have been described as “lingering,” particularly after his notable diving catches in the game against Rutgers on October 18. Before the Iowa game, he was listed as “Questionable,” but his status remains uncertain for the upcoming match.
In the case of Bryant Jr., he left the field in the first quarter against Iowa and was seen walking into the locker room afterward without assistance. However, Lanning did not provide any updates on his condition following the game. Harkey, who rolled his ankle, was also deemed “Close” to playing against Iowa but ultimately did not see action. His return would be beneficial for the Ducks, who managed to hold their offensive line together in his absence.
Jackson, similarly “Questionable” before the Iowa game, has been a consistent presence this season, starting in two of the previous eight games. His ability to return for the Minnesota game is still uncertain. Fans are particularly eager for the return of wide receiver Evan Stewart, who has been out since suffering a knee injury in the spring. The Ducks have yet to officially list Stewart as out for the season, leaving the possibility of his return open for the 2025 season.
Freshman defensive back Trey McNutt is another player to watch. He suffered a leg injury during fall camp and has yet to make his debut. While he has been listed as “Out” for every game thus far in 2025, there remains hope for his return during the regular season.
The official availability report for the Ducks will be published at 4 p.m. PT on Friday, providing clarity on who will be able to contribute against Minnesota.
