Oregon Coach Lanning Praises Transfer Hooks’ Tez‑Like Slot Skills as Ducks Add Versatile Lineman Bennett

Oregon Head Coach Dan Lanning highlighted incoming transfer wide receiver Iverson Hooks' slot capabilities, drawing comparisons to former standout Tez Johnson, while the team also integrated versatile offensive lineman Michael Bennett III to address key needs.

The Oregon football program prepares for its annual spring game, with significant attention on how new transfer additions will integrate into the roster. These incoming players are tasked with filling critical positions following departures and enhancing team depth, particularly in offensive skill positions and the offensive line.

Wide receiver Iverson Hooks joins Oregon after a productive season at UAB, where he was a top performer in the American Conference. He recorded 927 receiving yards and seven receiving touchdowns, statistics that placed him fourth in yards and tied for third in touchdowns within the conference last season. Head coach Dan Lanning noted Hooks exhibits slot receiver traits similar to former Oregon standout Tez Johnson, describing Hooks as a playmaker who needs to develop more physicality at the point of attack to maximize his potential in the collegiate system. The slot receiver position often involves quick routes and plays in the middle of the field.

On the offensive line, Michael Bennett III arrives to bolster the unit following the departure of three linemen to the NFL Draft. Bennett, a former Yale offensive tackle, earned All-Ivy first-team honors in both 2024 and 2025 and received an honorable mention on the AP FCS All-American team last season. Bennett stated his comfort at right tackle, a position he previously started, but confirmed working at guard and left tackle to provide positional flexibility. He emphasized that the five most physically capable players will earn starting roles, reflecting a merit-based approach to line assignments.

Hooks' arrival provides another strong option to a talented receiving corps, potentially securing a significant role in the passing game as a third or fourth receiver based on his previous conference performance. Bennett’s ability to play multiple positions offers valuable depth and competition for starting spots across the offensive line, directly addressing needs created by recent player exits. Observers will track how these key transfers establish their definitive roles during spring practices and preseason camp as the Ducks finalize their depth chart for the upcoming season.