D’Antre Robinson, Jerome Simmons bring big bodies to Oregon DL room
The Ducks lost some defensive line depth in the portal, but they also gained more big-bodied experience in D'Antre Robinson and Jerome Simmons.
The Oregon Ducks had a period of concern early in the offseason when the transfer portal opened. After both coordinators left Eugene for head coaching gigs elsewhere, the Ducks lost some of their coveted depth. More specifically, the defensive line depth decided to find new homes through the portal.
The Ducks managed to retain key starters A'Mauri Washington and Bear Alexander to keep big bodies in the interior, but lost plenty of important role players. Tionne Gray, Terrance Green and Jericho Johnson (who followed Tosh Lupoi to Cal in the portal) left the program and created a big question for the Ducks to answer. "You want to have guys that can play the run and be stout, especially in this conference," defensive line coach Tony Tuioti said.
"You can't have enough big bodies in the run game. A lot of teams that are playing deep in the playoffs like depth is so important, and the biggest thing for us is, how can we find guys that have certain traits? Want to find guys that can be physical at the point of attack, but also be able to rush the passer too, as well.
" Fortunately, Tuioti knew where to look to replace the lost size inside. The Ducks pulled two defensive tackles out of the portal: D'Antre Robinson and Jerome Simmons . Robinson, a transfer from Florida and North Carolina, should be a massive piece for the Ducks next season, literally.