From game-changing playmakers to unstoppable defenders, these Oregon football icons made their mark. With a Heisman winner at the top, here’s a look at the 10 greatest Ducks to ever suit up.

Top 10 Oregon Ducks of All Time: Heisman Winner Ranks Top

Oregon’s all-time leading rusher, Royce Freeman, was as consistent as they come. Whether running between the tackles or bouncing outside, Freeman had a knack for finding the end zone. He finished his career with over 5,600 rushing yards and 60 touchdowns, leaving his mark as one of the most productive backs in college football history.

11. Royce Freeman

10. Royce Freeman

Patrick Chung brought an edge to Oregon’s secondary with his hard-hitting style and versatility. A four-year starter, he racked up tackles and delivered bone-crushing hits while also excelling in coverage. His toughness and leadership carried over to the NFL, where he became a key piece of multiple championship-winning defenses.

9. Patrick Chung

Long before Oregon became a high-flying offensive powerhouse, Dan Fouts was already slinging it all over the field. A traditional pocket passer with a big arm, Fouts was a trailblazer for the Ducks’ passing game. His success at Oregon translated to an NFL Hall of Fame career, proving he was ahead of his time as one of the greatest quarterbacks in football history.

8. Dan Fouts

If defenders thought they could bring down Jonathan Stewart easily, they were in for a rude awakening. One of the most physically dominant running backs in Oregon history, Stewart ran with power, balance, and underrated speed. He rushed for over 1,700 yards in his final season before heading to the NFL, where he put together a long and productive career.

7. Jonathan Stewart

Oregon’s defense was a nightmare for opponents when Haloti Ngata was in the trenches. A freak of nature at defensive tackle, he overwhelmed offensive linemen with his size, strength, and surprising athleticism. Ngata’s dominance earned him All-American honors and made him one of the most feared defensive linemen in college football. His success carried over to the NFL, where he became a five-time Pro Bowler.

6. Haloti Ngata

LaMichael James was the definition of a game-breaker, shredding defenses with his blazing speed and quick cuts. He racked up over 5,000 rushing yards in his career and helped power Oregon’s high-flying offense to a national championship appearance in 2010. A two-time All-American and Doak Walker Award winner, James remains one of the most decorated running backs in school history.

5. LaMichael James

If you blinked, you probably missed De’Anthony Thomas streaking down the field for a touchdown. The "Black Mamba" was one of the most electrifying players to ever suit up for the Ducks, capable of scoring from anywhere at any time. Whether it was as a running back, receiver, or return man, Thomas made defenders look silly with his elite speed and agility. His highlight-reel plays are still the stuff of legend.

4. De’Anthony Thomas

Standing at 6’7” and built like a freight train, DeForest Buckner was an absolute menace on the defensive line. His ability to bull-rush offensive linemen and create chaos in the backfield made him one of the most dominant defensive players in Oregon history. His All-American campaign in 2015 put him on the map as a future NFL star, and he’s continued to wreak havoc at the pro level.

3. DeForest Buckner

Few quarterbacks have combined size, arm talent, and intelligence like Justin Herbert. The Eugene native stayed home to play for the Ducks, lighting up opposing defenses with his rocket arm and cool demeanor under pressure. He led Oregon to a Rose Bowl victory in his final season and has since proven himself as one of the NFL’s brightest young stars. Herbert’s legacy at Oregon is cemented as one of the program’s all-time greats.

30 Best Oregon Ducks of All Time: #1 Spot Eludes Justin Herbert

2. Justin Herbert

The undisputed No. 1, Marcus Mariota, was the heart and soul of Oregon football during his time in Eugene. The 2014 Heisman Trophy winner redefined the quarterback position with his elite speed, pinpoint accuracy, and decision-making. He led the Ducks to the national championship game, racking up countless school records along the way. Mariota remains the gold standard for Oregon quarterbacks and a legend in college football history.