Oregon Ducks Believe in Incoming 4-Star RB Tradarian Ball

New offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer praises Ball's athletic ability and production in high school.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 2:55pm

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Oregon Ducks incoming 2026 running back recruit Tradarian Ball is a consensus four-star prospect and top-10 running back nationally. New offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer highlighted Ball's impressive high school stats, including 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving, as well as his elite speed with a 10.5 100-meter dash time. The Ducks are excited about Ball's potential to contribute alongside returning running backs Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr.

Why it matters

The Ducks have high hopes for their 2026 running back room, which features the return of Davison and Hill as well as the addition of Ball and fellow 4-star recruit Brandon Smith. Ball's versatility as both a runner and receiver could make him an immediate impact player for Oregon's offense.

The details

Ball, who hails from the same Texas high school region as former Ducks star LaMichael James, rushed for 872 yards and 9 touchdowns as a senior. He also caught 63 passes for 789 yards and 9 more scores, showcasing his ability as a dual-threat back. Mehringer praised Ball as a "freak athlete" with elite speed. The Ducks lost some depth at running back this offseason, so Ball and Smith will have a chance to compete for the RB3 role behind Davison and Hill.

  • Ball was an early enrollee in Oregon's 2026 recruiting class.
  • The Ducks open the 2026 season on August 30.

The players

Tradarian Ball

A consensus 4-star running back recruit and top-10 player at his position in the 2026 class, known for his impressive dual-threat production in high school including 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving.

Drew Mehringer

Oregon's new offensive coordinator, who praised Ball's athletic ability and potential to contribute to the Ducks' offense.

Jordon Davison

A returning running back who thrived as a true freshman for Oregon in 2025.

Dierre Hill Jr.

Another returning running back who made an impact as a true freshman for the Ducks in 2025.

Brandon Smith

A 4-star running back recruit who joined Oregon's 2026 class late and will compete for playing time.

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What they’re saying

“Tradarian Ball. Freak athlete, 10.5 100-meter kid. He's from Texarkana, right down the street from LaMichael James' high school. He's the No. 4 running back in the country, four-star player, and the only running back in the country to have both 1,000 yards receiving and 1,000 yards rushing. Freakazoid athlete.”

— Drew Mehringer, Oregon Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

Ball will look to make an immediate impact in Oregon's running back rotation when the Ducks open the 2026 season on August 30.

The takeaway

Oregon's 2026 running back room is shaping up to be one of the most talented in the country, with the return of Davison and Hill as well as the addition of elite recruits like Ball and Smith. The Ducks are high on Ball's potential to be a dynamic dual-threat back in their offense.