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Oregon Stars Shine in Super Bowl LXI
Former Ducks and players with Oregon ties compete in the big game
Published on Feb. 8, 2026
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As the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks face off in Super Bowl LXI, several players with connections to the University of Oregon will be taking the field, including star cornerback Christian Gonzalez, running back TreVeyon Henderson, and quarterback Drake Maye. Other notable names include former Oregon special teams standout Brendan Schooler and defensive lineman Brandon Pili, who was a recruiting loss for the Ducks.
Why it matters
The presence of so many Oregon-affiliated players in the Super Bowl showcases the program's ability to develop NFL-caliber talent, even if some of those players didn't end up suiting up for the Ducks. It also highlights the continued impact Oregon has on the professional game, with its alumni making an impression at the highest level.
The details
Christian Gonzalez, considered one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, will be a key part of the Patriots' secondary. TreVeyon Henderson, who torched Oregon while playing for Ohio State, will look to make an impact in the Seahawks' backfield. Drake Maye, who had a standout performance against the Ducks while at North Carolina, will back up Seahawks QB Sam Darnold. Other Oregon ties include Brendan Schooler on special teams for the Patriots and Brandon Pili, a defensive lineman for the Seahawks who was a recruiting loss for the Ducks.
- Super Bowl LXI will be played on February 11, 2026.
The players
Christian Gonzalez
An elite cornerback for the New England Patriots and former one-year starter for the Oregon Ducks.
TreVeyon Henderson
A running back for the Seattle Seahawks who had a standout performance against Oregon while playing for Ohio State.
Drake Maye
The backup quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks who had a strong game against Oregon while playing for North Carolina.
Brendan Schooler
A special teams standout for the New England Patriots who finished his college career at Texas after starting at Oregon.
Brandon Pili
A defensive lineman for the Seattle Seahawks who was a recruiting loss for the Oregon Ducks, signing with USC instead.
What’s next
Fans will be tuning in to see if any of the Oregon-affiliated players can make a difference in helping their teams win the Super Bowl championship.
The takeaway
The presence of so many former Oregon players and players with Oregon ties in the Super Bowl is a testament to the program's ability to develop NFL-caliber talent, even if some of those players didn't end up suiting up for the Ducks. It's a proud moment for the Oregon football community.
