Oregon Could Get Star Receiver Evan Stewart Back in CFP Second Round

Oregon’s offense could receive a significant boost in the College Football Playoffs with the potential return of star wide receiver Evan Stewart. The senior has not played all season due to a major knee injury suffered over the summer but is progressing in practice and may be available if the Ducks advance past James Madison in the first round.

Stewart was initially considered for Oregon’s opening-round game against the Dukes but has since been ruled out. He continues to work toward game readiness, though he remains weeks away from being fully prepared. CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz reported that the Ducks hope Stewart could return in the second round against Texas Tech, a team known for its strong pass defense.

Despite missing the season, Stewart could still maintain his redshirt status for 2025. Postseason appearances do not count toward redshirt eligibility, meaning he could preserve a year of eligibility even if he plays later in the playoffs.

Stewart’s return would give Oregon a proven playmaker in the passing game. As the team’s top returning receiver, he was expected to be a centerpiece of the Ducks’ offense, complementing emerging stars and providing a deep threat for quarterback play.

1. Stewart’s Background and Injury Recovery

Stewart joined Oregon after transferring from Texas A&M, where he compiled 1,163 receiving yards over two seasons. In his first year with the Ducks, he added 613 receiving yards, immediately establishing himself as a key weapon in the passing attack. The knee injury he suffered in the summer sidelined him for the entire 2025 regular season. Rehabilitation has been progressing steadily, with Stewart returning to practice and participating in non-contact drills. Oregon’s staff remains cautious, emphasizing that Stewart needs to regain full game shape before returning to competition. The goal is to have him healthy for a potential second-round matchup rather than rush him into action prematurely. If he returns in the playoffs, Stewart could immediately provide a dynamic target for Oregon’s quarterback, stretching defenses vertically and opening up opportunities for the rest of the offense.

2. Offensive Leaders in Stewart’s Absence

With Stewart sidelined, Oregon has relied on a balanced passing attack led by Florida State transfer Malik Benson, who has totaled 526 receiving yards this season. Benson has provided a reliable option for moving the chains and maintaining offensive efficiency. Tight end Kenyon Sadiq has emerged as another focal point, recording 490 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. Sadiq’s presence has added versatility to the passing game and created matchup problems for opposing defenses. Freshman Dakorien Moore has also stepped up, accumulating 443 receiving yards and earning a starting role in the College Football Playoffs. Moore’s development has been critical in keeping the Ducks competitive without Stewart. The combination of Benson, Sadiq, and Moore has allowed Oregon to sustain a productive offense, though Stewart’s return would add an additional layer of explosiveness and experience.

3. Potential Impact Against Texas Tech

Should Stewart return in the second round, he would face a Texas Tech defense that has been among the best in the FBS against the pass, allowing just 190.8 passing yards per game—20th-fewest nationally. His experience and speed would give Oregon a deeper arsenal of playmakers, potentially forcing the Red Raiders to alter their coverage schemes and create favorable matchups for other receivers. Stewart’s presence could also alleviate pressure on Benson and Sadiq, helping the Ducks maintain a more balanced and unpredictable attack. This depth could be decisive in a high-stakes playoff setting. Ultimately, Stewart’s potential return offers a significant boost for Oregon as they aim to make a deep run in the College Football Playoffs, giving the Ducks a chance to compete against one of their toughest opponents of the season.