ESPN Calls Oregon Transfer Simeon Price the Ducks' Under‑the‑Radar Running Back

*TL;DR: ESPN’s Paolo Uggetti labels transfer Simeon Price as Oregon’s most under‑the‑radar player, despite career totals of 100 carries for 470 yards and two touchdowns.

Oregon enters the 2026 season with a deep offensive roster, but the running back depth chart has drawn less attention than the quarterback and receiver upgrades. After a 2025 campaign that featured three backs combining for over 2,000 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, the Ducks added high‑profile transfers at quarterback and safety, leaving the newcomer Simeon Price largely unnoticed.

Price arrived from Colorado after a single season in which he logged 21 carries for 143 yards and two touchdowns across four games before an ankle injury ended his year. Across four collegiate seasons at Colorado, Mississippi State and Coastal Carolina, he accumulated 100 carries for 470 yards and two touchdowns. The numbers translate to an average of 4.7 yards per carry, a modest output compared with Oregon’s returning backs.

Returning senior Jordon Davison posted 113 carries for 667 yards and 15 touchdowns last season, while Dierre Hill Jr. added 75 carries for 656 yards and five touchdowns. Both are slated to start, positioning Price as a third‑string option. Coach Dan Lanning’s offense, which thrives on multiple rushing threats, could still benefit from Price’s experience in three different FBS programs, offering situational versatility and depth.

ESPN’s assessment suggests that Price’s low profile may mask potential value, especially if injuries or fatigue affect the top two backs. Oregon’s recent lack of depth at running back during the College Football Playoff highlighted the need for reliable backups. Price’s presence could allow the Ducks to maintain a three‑back rotation, keeping fresh legs on the field and preserving the high‑tempo attack that defined their recent success.

What to watch next: monitor Price’s snap count in the season opener and his performance in short‑yardage and goal‑line situations, which could signal whether he remains a hidden asset or fades into the background.