Oregon Adds Veteran Running Back Simeon Price from Transfer Portal

The Oregon Ducks continue to reshape their roster for 2026, adding depth and experience to a backfield that lost several contributors during the offseason. On Thursday, Oregon announced the addition of Simeon Price, who enters Eugene after entering the transfer portal on Jan. 14. Price will use his final year of eligibility as a sixth-year senior.

Price’s 2025 campaign was cut short due to an ankle injury after just four games at Colorado. In that span, he rushed 21 times for 143 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 6.8 yards per carry, while also contributing modestly in the passing game with four catches for 10 yards. The injury allowed him to take a medical redshirt and preserve one remaining year of eligibility.

Standing 6-foot and weighing 215 pounds, Price provides size and proven experience to a Ducks backfield in transition. Oregon is replacing departures from the portal and graduation, including Makhi Hughes (Houston), Jayden Limar (Washington), Jay Harris (Kansas State), and Noah Whittington, who completed his eligibility.

Price becomes the first running back transfer addition for the Ducks this offseason. His arrival underscores head coach Dan Lanning’s ongoing commitment to blending experienced transfers with homegrown talent as Oregon aims to remain competitive in the Pac-12 and College Football Playoff landscape.

1. Price’s College Career

Price began his college career at Mississippi State, signing as a three-star recruit in the 2021 class. After redshirting his freshman year, he appeared in 25 games over three seasons for the Bulldogs, recording 35 carries for 191 yards and 15 receptions for 125 yards, including a touchdown. In 2024, Price transferred to Coastal Carolina, where he played in nine games and rushed 44 times for 136 yards. Over his collegiate career, spanning Mississippi State, Coastal Carolina, and Colorado, Price has totaled 470 rushing yards and two touchdowns in 38 games. At Colorado, Price’s early-season production in 2025 was promising before his injury. His ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver highlighted his versatility, making him an attractive option for Oregon as they seek a multi-dimensional back. Price’s experience in different programs also provides a level of adaptability that the Ducks will value. Having competed in multiple conferences and systems, he brings knowledge that can help younger players adjust to the demands of high-level college football.

2. High School and Recruiting Background

Price hails from West Florida High School in Pensacola, Florida, where he was rated as a three-star prospect in the 2021 recruiting cycle. Nationally, he ranked as the No. 666 overall player and the No. 47 running back. Other recruiting services listed him as the No. 44 athlete in the country and the No. 76 overall player in Florida. Price carried an 88 composite rating and drew more than 20 scholarship offers from FBS programs. His high school performance demonstrated a combination of size, speed, and vision that allowed him to compete at the Power Five level. These traits, combined with his college experience, make him a ready-to-play option for Oregon in 2026. Oregon’s coaching staff views Price as a player who can contribute immediately while mentoring younger backs in the program. His combination of experience and physical tools is expected to stabilize a backfield that underwent significant turnover this offseason.

3. Impact on Oregon’s Roster and Transfer Class

Price is the 14th transfer commitment for Dan Lanning’s program in the 2026 cycle. The Ducks have also seen 30 players leave via the portal, reflecting a significant roster turnover. Despite this, Oregon still ranks No. 29 nationally in transfer portal acquisitions, according to On3. The addition of Price strengthens the Ducks’ depth chart at running back, complementing existing players and providing a veteran presence for key game situations. His versatility and experience make him a strategic addition for a team targeting another College Football Playoff appearance. Oregon has gone 26–3 over the past two seasons and reached the playoff in consecutive years. Adding seasoned players like Price positions the program to continue competing at a high level despite offseason departures. With spring practice and fall camp approaching, Price’s role will be defined, but his immediate contribution is expected both on the field and in guiding younger teammates. His arrival signals Oregon’s intent to blend talent and experience to maintain championship-level performance.