With recruiting season gaining momentum, Dan Lanning and the Oregon Ducks are actively pursuing top talent. Recently, Hayes Fawcett from On3 Sports revealed that Trey McNutt, the highly touted safety from the class of 2025, has narrowed down his college choices to eight schools, with Oregon being one of them.
McNutt is highly regarded by both On3 Sports, which awards him a 5-star rating, and 247 Sports, which rates him as a 4-star recruit. Despite the slight variation in ratings, there is unanimous consent that he is the premier safety prospect in his class. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds, McNutt possesses a unique blend of strength and explosive speed that could potentially elevate him to a standout free-roaming safety at the collegiate level.
One notable aspect of McNutt’s game is his exceptional ability to analyze defensive plays swiftly and swiftly move towards the ball carrier, whether it be during a rushing play or a passing situation. His instinctive knack for delivering impactful tackles sets him apart on the field.
McNutt originates from Shaker Heights, Ohio, a suburb located outside Cleveland. Among the schools vying for his commitment, the Ohio State Buckeyes, his hometown team, are considered strong contenders to secure his talents. Additionally, prominent programs such as the Georgia Bulldogs, Michigan Wolverines, and USC Trojans are also in the running for his commitment.
The safety position holds significant importance for Oregon in the 2025 recruiting class, especially with the impending graduation of key players like Tysheem Johnson and Kobe Savage after the 2024 season. This creates a pressing need to replenish the secondary. While Oregon currently boasts talented safeties on its roster, adding a player of McNutt’s caliber would provide immediate depth and stability to the team.