Over the past 25 years, few college football programs have made as much noise as the Oregon Ducks. With a 239-83 (.742) record since the turn of the millennium, Oregon has solidified its place among the sport’s elite. The Ducks have made 24 bowl appearances, won three Rose Bowls, played in two National Championships, and made two College Football Playoff appearances. On top of that, they’ve produced 99 NFL Draft picks and the program’s first-ever Heisman Trophy winner in Marcus Mariota.
Oregon’s ascent to national prominence didn’t happen overnight—it was built brick by brick by some of the most electrifying and influential players in college football. As the Ducks prepare for the 2025 season, Ducks Wire is celebrating those who helped transform the program into a perennial powerhouse by ranking the top 25 Oregon players since 2000. Coming in at No. 7 is one of the most exciting and unforgettable talents to ever wear green and yellow: De’Anthony Thomas, affectionately known as “The Black Mamba.”
When Thomas committed to Oregon, it was more than just a signing—it was a seismic shift. A Los Angeles native, Thomas was long thought to be a lock for USC, with many in Trojan country already envisioning him as the next Reggie Bush. But on National Signing Day, Thomas shocked the college football world by flipping to Oregon. This wasn’t just a win on the recruiting trail—it was a statement. For the first time, Oregon had successfully gone head-to-head with a blue-blood program like USC for a high-profile Southern California recruit and won.
Once Thomas arrived in Eugene, it became clear that he was built for Chip Kelly’s fast-paced, spread offense. Kelly’s system was predicated on speed, versatility, and the ability to turn any play into a scoring opportunity—and Thomas fit that mold perfectly. With his blazing track-star speed, unmatched agility, and innate playmaking ability, Thomas was a threat to score every time he touched the ball, whether it was as a running back, wide receiver, or return man.
His freshman season in 2011 was nothing short of electric. Thomas tallied 2,235 all-purpose yards and 18 total touchdowns, earning Freshman All-American honors and cementing himself as one of the most dynamic players in the country. Fans were glued to their screens every Saturday, waiting for the moment Thomas would break free and take it to the house.
The 2012 Rose Bowl provided one of the most iconic moments of his career. On Oregon’s second offensive play, Thomas took a handoff and raced 91 yards to the end zone in breathtaking fashion. He added another touchdown on a 64-yard run later in the game, helping Oregon defeat Wisconsin and win its first Rose Bowl in 95 years.
Over the course of his career, Thomas accumulated 5,345 all-purpose yards and 46 total touchdowns. He averaged over 11 yards every time he touched the ball, which is a staggering stat that speaks to his game-breaking potential. His role may have been somewhat reduced by the sheer number of weapons Oregon had at the time, but whenever the Ducks needed a spark, they turned to No. 6.
What truly set Thomas apart, however, was the way he captured the imagination of the fans. He was more than just a football player—he was a human highlight reel. Watching De’Anthony Thomas play was like watching a video game in real life. He made defenders miss in the open field with ease, hit top speed in the blink of an eye, and made plays that left fans speechless.
While his NFL career may not have reached the heights of his college stardom, Thomas’ impact on Oregon football is undeniable. He helped usher in a new era of Ducks dominance and showed that Oregon could land—and develop—elite talent on a national scale.
For all those reasons and more, De’Anthony Thomas lands at No. 7 on our list of the greatest Oregon Ducks since 2000. His speed, swagger, and unforgettable highlights will forever be etched into Ducks lore.