As the anticipation for the 2025 college football season continues to build, the Oregon Ducks are already earning national recognition. The Associated Press has released its annual preseason All-American teams, and three standout Ducks have secured their place among the nation’s elite. Junior defensive back Dillon Thieneman, junior EDGE rusher Matayo Uiagalelei, and redshirt junior running back Makhi Hughes have each been honored, showcasing the strength and depth of Oregon’s roster heading into the fall.
The Ducks, ranked No. 7 in the AP preseason poll, are generating buzz on both sides of the ball — and for good reason. Thieneman earned a coveted spot on the AP First Team, while Hughes and Uiagalelei were named to the Second Team. All three players are expected to be central to Oregon’s success this season, and their preseason accolades reflect just how important their roles will be.
**Dillon Thieneman: A Defensive Star in the Making**
After transferring from Purdue, Dillon Thieneman has wasted no time establishing himself as one of the premier safeties in the country. Now entering his junior year, Thieneman brings an impressive résumé to Eugene. In just two seasons with the Boilermakers, he started all 24 games and racked up a staggering 210 total tackles — 144 of them solo — to go along with six interceptions, eight pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and a sack.
Standing at six feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, Thieneman’s physicality and football IQ have quickly made him a cornerstone of Oregon’s secondary. He was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2023 and earned All-Big Ten honors in both of his seasons at Purdue (second team in 2023 and honorable mention in 2024). Now, under the guidance of new defensive backs coach Chris Hampton, Thieneman is expected to thrive in a retooled Ducks defense led by coordinator Tosh Lupoi.
His ability to read offenses, close on the ball, and deliver hard-hitting tackles makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. In a secondary already loaded with talent, Thieneman’s presence brings an added edge that could elevate Oregon’s defense to one of the nation’s best.
**Matayo Uiagalelei: Oregon’s EDGE Weapon**
Joining Thieneman as a defensive force is junior outside linebacker and EDGE rusher Matayo Uiagalelei. Known for his explosiveness off the line and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Uiagalelei has steadily developed into one of the Pac-12’s most feared pass rushers. His size, athleticism, and versatility make him a valuable piece in Lupoi’s aggressive defensive schemes.
Uiagalelei’s inclusion on the AP Second Team is a testament to his growth and the expectations surrounding him this season. Oregon will be relying heavily on his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and set the tone defensively.
**Makhi Hughes: A Workhorse in the Backfield**
On the offensive side of the ball, redshirt junior running back Makhi Hughes is poised to make waves. Named to the AP Second Team, Hughes is expected to be a focal point in Will Stein’s offensive game plan. Known for his durability, vision, and powerful running style, Hughes will be looked upon to carry the load in the backfield and provide balance to Oregon’s high-octane passing attack.
With Hughes anchoring the ground game, Oregon’s offense gains a reliable option to keep defenses honest and control the tempo. His ability to grind out tough yards and contribute in the passing game makes him a vital weapon in Stein’s playbook.
**Oregon’s National Spotlight**
With three preseason All-Americans, the Ducks are clearly not flying under the radar. Expectations are sky-high in Eugene, and with a balanced mix of defensive grit and offensive firepower, Oregon looks primed to contend on the national stage.
As the 2025 season kicks off, all eyes will be on Thieneman, Uiagalelei, and Hughes — three dynamic playmakers who embody the toughness, skill, and intensity that Oregon football is known for.