The 6-1.25, 181-pound, Birmingham native’s one single move just shifted the entire board for Ryan Day and the Bucks’. And too on the first day of the Early National Signing Period. Na’eem Offord, the elite five-star defensive back and the No. 12 overall recruit in the nation, made one of the biggest moves of the cycle. The Alabama native, previously committed to Ohio State, flipped to the Oregon Ducks in a headline-grabbing decision. While this was a major coup for Oregon, it also sent shockwaves through the Buckeyes fanbase, leaving emotions raw and social media buzzing. For which we don’t blame them.

For Na’eem Offord, the decision to trade the Scarlet and Gray for the Green and Yellow wasn’t made lightly. The reason could get anyone to flip, to be honest. He cited Oregon’s unique relationship with one of the greatest brands, Nike co-founder Phil Knight, as a key factor. “He played a big role, like a huge, big role. He’s actually waiting on me to get up there, he’s got a lot of stuff planned for me. He’s gonna help me make my shoe”, Offord told CBS Sports. You said what? A new shoe? That’s crazy. Referencing the innovative NIL opportunities awaiting him in Eugene. Knight’s presence loomed large in his recruitment, offering a blend of brand-building and long-term potential that few programs could rival.

However, the Ryan Day and OSU faithful’s wraith came down today on a hype reel, their once-a-Buckeye, Na’eem Offord, posted on Instagram with a caption that showcased his “dog mentality,” most likely referencing the whole commitment saga. Imagine if he had used a duck emoji, the Bucks fans would have died of jealousy. “Been lot of ups and downs nobody know the struggles I go through but I stood onnet 🐕 mentality”, hinted at the journey behind the headlines. But while Ducks fans celebrated, Buckeyes supporters flooded the comments, their frustration bubbling over.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning also played a pivotal role in sealing the deal. Lanning has rapidly built a reputation as one of the best recruiters in the game, and Offord’s addition elevates the Ducks’ 2025 class to No. 3 nationally, according to On3. With Offord in the fold, Oregon landed the No. 3 cornerback in the nation and solidified its presence in the talent-rich state of Alabama—a testament to its growing recruiting reach.

Frustration and fury of the scarlet and gray

Ohio State fans didn’t hold back in the elite CB’s Instagram comment section, airing their grievances in real time. One scorned supporter claimed, “Devin Sanchez better,” referencing one of their 5-Star cornerback who they were successful in keeping in the recruiting class, who was once seen laughing on his own side. It was a not-so-subtle way of downplaying Offord’s value, but the sour grapes were hard to miss. Making the comparison feel like a desperate consolation prize.

Another commenter jabbed, “Should’ve stayed down south,” evoking the regional pride that often dominates recruiting narratives. Already missing Na’eem Offord and his decision to head west defied the conventional wisdom that top players from Alabama gravitate toward the Big 10 powerhouse. For Oregon, it’s a testament to their growing allure, but for Buckeyes fans, it stings to lose a top recruit to a non-traditional rival.

One particularly biting comment read, “Got blurred in his state chip… stay on that side for a shoe that Phil isn’t making for him.” It’s clear this fan wasn’t just angry—they were doubling down on personal attacks, calling out Offord’s performance in high school and casting doubt on the promises made by Oregon’s NIL pitch. While such comments might seem over-the-top, they reflect the high stakes and emotional investment fans’ place in recruiting battles.

Perhaps, the most negative comment award of the day goes to this with a telling remark, “We don’t need you anyways, at the end of the day money talks.” This bitter acknowledgment of the influence of NIL deals underscores a growing frustration among fans who feel their programs are losing ground in the new era of college football. Yet, it’s hard to deny the opportunities the Ducks offer, especially with Knight’s backing and a culture centered around innovation.