Oregon Coach Dan Lanning Optimistic About Wide Receiver Evan Stewart's Return

Lanning discusses Stewart's progress, quarterback Dante Moore's growth, and more ahead of the Ducks' spring game.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:08pm by

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in shades of green and yellow, representing the dynamic action of a football game.Oregon's passing game looks to take flight again with the return of wide receiver Evan Stewart and the continued growth of quarterback Dante Moore.Eugene Today

Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning provided an update on wide receiver Evan Stewart's return from injury, praising his versatility and progress this spring. Lanning also discussed quarterback Dante Moore's growth since his first season, as well as the next steps for wide receiver Jeremiah McClellan. The coach highlighted areas the team needs to improve, including reducing penalties and improving operational execution.

Why it matters

Stewart's return from injury is a key storyline for the Ducks as they look to build on their successful 2025 season. Lanning's comments provide insight into how the coaching staff views Stewart's development and role within the offense. Additionally, the progress of young players like Moore and McClellan will be crucial to Oregon's success in the coming years.

The details

Lanning said Stewart has been 'getting more fluid every single day' and praised his versatility, noting the wide receiver has played multiple positions. The coach said the team has been 'conscientious' about how they use Stewart this spring to protect him ahead of the season. Regarding quarterback Dante Moore, Lanning said the sophomore has been 'operating at a high level' in terms of decision-making and processing. For wide receiver Jeremiah McClellan, Lanning wants to see him maintain the right 'temperament' and continue making strides as a key contributor.

  • The Oregon Ducks will hold their annual spring game on April 26, 2025.

The players

Evan Stewart

A wide receiver for the Oregon Ducks who missed the 2025 season due to injury but is making progress in his return this spring.

Dante Moore

The sophomore quarterback for the Oregon Ducks who Lanning says has been 'operating at a high level' in terms of decision-making and processing.

Jeremiah McClellan

A wide receiver for the Oregon Ducks who Lanning wants to see continue making strides and maintain the right 'temperament' as a key contributor.

Dan Lanning

The head coach of the Oregon Ducks football team.

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What they’re saying

“Getting more more fluid every single day. I think he's a smart player. We've been able to move him around. He's played a lot of positions here for us, and that's showing up this spring, whether he's in the slot or at x or z.”

— Dan Lanning, Head Coach, Oregon Ducks

“Again, he's been operating all spring. So, quarterback maybe doesn't change quite as much as it does. Ultimately, for some other positions that are going to get tackled to the ground, we're not tackling our quarterback to the ground, but decision making, process, ability to make checks, all those things are operating on a high level right now for him.”

— Dan Lanning, Head Coach, Oregon Ducks

“J-Mac actually talked to the team today after practice. He's got unbelievable passion and energy. And sometimes that can be your greatest strength, and sometimes that can be your greatest weakness. He knows that. He's self-aware of that.”

— Dan Lanning, Head Coach, Oregon Ducks

What’s next

The Oregon Ducks will hold their annual spring game on April 26, 2025, where fans will get their first look at Evan Stewart's return to the field.

The takeaway

Lanning's comments suggest the Ducks are optimistic about Evan Stewart's recovery and his ability to contribute in multiple roles this season. The continued development of young playmakers like Dante Moore and Jeremiah McClellan will also be crucial as Oregon looks to build on its success in 2025.