While Oregon's starting defensive line is among the best in college football with the return of Matayo Uiagalelei, Teitum Tuioti, A'Mauri Washington and Bear Alexander, their depth got utterly destroyed in the transfer portal.
Among the 30 Ducks that left in pursuit of starting opportunities, seven played in the trenches on defense. Terrance Green signed with Alabama. Tionne Gray opted for Notre Dame. Blake Purchase landed a new deal at Ole Miss and Xadavien Sims at Arkansas. The rest scattered.
It represents a toll and a challenge for line coach Tony Tuioti and new defensive coordinator Chris Hampton, but the 2026 edition of Gang Green picked up tackle Jerome Simmons Saturday night, a transfer from the University of Louisiana-Monroe, 6-5, 340.