Preseason Camp Preview: DL

DEFENSIVE LINE

Who's back: As was the case on the offensive line, Oregon's defensive line was beset by injuries in 2021. And also as was the case on the offensive line, the Ducks' 2022 defensive line looks deep and talented because some players opted to remain in school this fall. Defensively, Popo Aumavae and Brandon Dorlus had decisions to make after consistently grading out as two of the Pac-12's elite linemen in 2021. Their return this season is a boon to the UO football program, and trouble for opposing linemen and ballcarriers. Injuries sidelined both in the spring, along with another veteran lineman, Keyon Ware-Hudson. Having all three back and healthy for the start of this preseason camp will be a boost for Oregon's defense.

Their absence in the spring meant guys like Keanu Williams, Sua'ava Poti and transfer Taki Taimani got a bunch of reps with other veterans on defense. The injury bug also bit Bradyn Swinson in 2021, as he missed a chunk of the season due to a knee issue. Swinson was a terror off the edge when available. Jake Shipley and Maceal Afaese further enhance the depth up front, and are looking to take the next step in their career progressions this season. Josh Simmons and Ty Delgado joined the program in the spring, helping pick up those reps some of the other vets missed due to injury.

Brandon Dorlus

Who's new: The Ducks will welcome pieces this camp that provide both experience and young talent. Casey Rogers and Jordon Riley are both transfers from Nebraska who provide more veteran leadership up front; each was an academic all-conference pick in 2021, speaking to their maturity. And Oregon's 2022 recruiting class included a couple of big bodies in Sir Mells and Ben Roberts, who will participate in their first collegiate camp this month.

Bradyn Swinson Sack

What to watch: The Ducks return some big-time linemen who could merit getting a lot of reps, but also have enough depth to employ some heavy rotations if that's what coaches would prefer. That's exactly the type of decision to sort out during a preseason camp. Another X factor is Jackson Powers-Johnson, who switched over from the offensive line late last season to fill the void created by injuries. He could still be a factor as a two-way guy for Oregon entering 2022.