Dan Lanning shares what Kam Alexander has brought to Oregon’s defense

Dan Lanning and Oregon Ducks focus on next big promise after success in early May | Inner scoop

In January former UTSA defensive back Kam Alexander determined Oregon, via the NCAA Transfer Portal. Oregon head coach Dan Lanning believes the redshirt senior could play a crucial role for the Ducks this fall.

‘Kam is a good player’ said Lanning. “He has great speed and athleticism. I think he matches the routes well. We continue to challenge him from a physical point of view during the tackle. But he is a man who can stay here with anyone and go with anyone. He’s a fast guy, which is a great trait to have in corners.”

In the 2023 campaign, Alexander played 13 games for the Roadrunners, making nine starts. He recorded 34 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, two interceptions and 17 passes defended, fifth-most in the country.

For his efforts, he was named a first-team all-AAC selection by the league’s coaches. Alexander only improved under pressure last season. In UTSA’s game against Marshall in the Frisco Bowl, Alexander recorded his first career sack, returning an interception for 57 yards. He was named the Frisco Bowl Defensive MVP.

Kam Alexander will be an excellent addition to Oregon’s secondary. Last season, the Ducks allowed 215.9 passing yards per game, which ranked No. 54 in the country. Oregon’s run defense was significantly better, yielding just 102.6 rushing yards per game (10th nationally).

Oregon gets commitment from another talented DB

Alexander won’t be the only new face in Oregon’s secondary this season. On Sunday, former Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Peyton Woodyard committed to Oregon, via the NCAA Transfer Portal.

Before entering the portal, Woodyard went through spring training with the Crimson Tide after enrolling early, but opted to start his college career elsewhere. He has four years of eligibility left, which he will use in Eugene.

Woodyard played high school football at Bellflower (CA) St. John Bosco, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 128 overall recruit in the Cycle of 2024according to the On3 industry rankingsa weighted average using all four major recruitment media companies.

Former head coach Nick Saban was the one who recruited Woodyard and saw him sign his National Letter of Intent in December. The expected safety even went through bowl practices with Alabama as they prepared for the College Football Playoff semifinals Michigan at the Rozenkom.

However, Woodyard opted to re-explore his options after the coaching change took place in Tuscaloosa. He worked with it for a short time Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack but eventually he decided to have a change of scenery, and he’s now on his way to Oregon.

Steve Samra from On3 also contributed to this article.