Greatness doesn’t wait. It doesn’t ask for permission, and it certainly doesn’t stick to timelines. Some players step onto the field already carrying the weight of expectations, and before they’ve even played a down, the whispers start. That’s exactly the conversation surrounding Oregon Ducks’ latest, LSU flip five-star WR talent, where he’s even being compared to current players in the CFB and the big league. Lanning’s surely got his hands on a star, but looks like he’s not done yet…

But before we get to that, the star in question is Dakorien Moore, the Ducks’ prized five-star wide receiver commit, and he might just be the most electric freshman in the country. The comparisons are rolling in fast—first to Jeremiah Smith, the Ohio State Buckeyes freshman who rewrote expectations for first-year wideouts, and now, to some of the best slot receivers in the country. It’s no wonder Dan Lanning has been singing his praises since December. “Whether it’s playing wideout or even going out there at DB or running the 40, he’s the guy that wants to be involved in that, and so we’re thrilled to have him in our program,” Lanning said. That kind of versatility is rare, but for Moore, it’s second nature.

The buzz around the Duncanville native isn’t just built on projection — it’s backed by proof. He dominated the Under Armour All-American Game, earning MVP honors, and then, just weeks later at the Polynesian Bowl, he delivered another jaw-dropping moment, skying over two defenders for a one-handed catch in traffic that instantly went viral. Those plays aren’t just highlights; they’re statements. And as 247Sports’ Director of Scouting, Andrew Ivins pointed out, he’s already defying expectations in ways that set him apart from even the best recruits.

“I’ll say this though, Dan Lanning, since he’s been at Oregon, the Ducks have only started two true freshmen in two years. Both those guys played in the Fiesta Bowl because of opt-outs. So Dakorien Moore would have to be bucking the trend. But if there’s a guy to do it, it’s Dakorien Moore.” The reason? It’s more than just talent — it’s mentality. “He plays much bigger than the numbers suggest,” Ivins continued.

Acknowledging that while Moore isn’t the biggest perimeter receiver at 5’11”, he makes up for it with an almost unnatural ability to out-muscle defenders. “And I think the other thing that separates Dakorien Moore from the rest of the pack is that competitive drive. This is a kid that hates to lose — 7-on-7, you know, spring games, he wants to win. He’s actually one of the few players that actually got snaps on both sides of the ball at Duncanville.” That’s the type of attitude that turns a high-level recruit into a game-changer. However, Moore isn’t the only elite talent Oregon is chasing.

The Ducks are already sitting atop the 2026 recruiting rankings, and, this time, they’re in the thick of the race for Jackson Cantwell, the No. 1 overall player in the class, as well as offensive tackle Immanuel Iheanacho—another five-star prospect who could anchor their offensive line for years to come. Lanning isn’t just recruiting well—he’s trying to build something terrifying, a roster loaded with future pros at every position.

Moore is the face of that movement right now, the first step in what could be a historic freshman class. Being one of the most “expensive” and “sought-after” talents already being compared to NFL stars without playing a single collegiate snap.

Dan Lanning gets his grades and his 5-star WR bags comparison with a Lions’ star

Dan Lanning is stacking wins — both on and off the field. CBS Sports’ Chip Patterson recently handed Lanning an ‘A’ for his first three seasons in Eugene, and honestly, how could he not? The Ducks have been a force under Lanning, and his latest recruiting haul is proving just how dominant Oregon has become on the trail.

On securing Dakorien Moore, Lanning-led the hype train is picking up steam. In a recent post on X, Rivals compared Moore to Detroit Lions star Amon-Ra St. Brown—which, if true, should have Ducks fans absolutely buzzing. Moore isn’t just a burner — he’s a complete receiver with elite route-running and hands, making him an instant impact player.

And it doesn’t stop there. Oregon already holds the top-ranked 2026 recruiting class, and Lanning is still chasing more big names. The Ducks are in prime chase to land two of the elite offensive linemen like Jackson Cantwell and Iheanacho, which would further solidify their dominance in the trenches.

With 35 wins — the most of any coach from his hiring class — Lanning has the Ducks flying high.