Texas Running Back Cadarius McMiller Commits to Oregon

4-star recruit chooses Ducks over several top programs, citing strong relationship with future position coach

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:23pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes and neon colors that evoke the dynamic movement and intensity of a talented running back on the football field.A dynamic illustration captures the raw power and explosive energy of a top college football recruit's commitment to a rising program.Tyler Today

Cadarius McMiller, a highly-touted 4-star running back from Tyler, Texas, has committed to play for the University of Oregon Ducks football team. McMiller, ranked as the nation's #15 running back and #173 overall prospect, chose Oregon over a number of other top programs including Arizona State, Baylor, Texas Tech, and Notre Dame, citing his strong personal connection with future position coach Ra'Shaad Samples as a key factor in his decision.

Why it matters

McMiller's commitment is a major recruiting win for Oregon, as they continue to build a top-5 ranked recruiting class for 2027. His powerful running style and versatility could provide a valuable balance to Oregon's offense, which has become increasingly pass-heavy in recent years.

The details

During his official visit to Eugene, McMiller was impressed not only by Oregon's facilities and winning culture, but also by the personal relationship he developed with future position coach Ra'Shaad Samples. 'Coach Samp? It's a solid relationship,' McMiller said. 'It just felt right. He's a good dude. To be a great recruiter, you've got to communicate well and build trust, and he's got both down pat.' Standing at 6'1" and 185 lbs, McMiller brings both size and speed, with a 10.2 second 100m dash time.

  • McMiller took his official visit to Oregon a few weeks ago.
  • He announced his commitment to the Ducks on April 12, 2026.

The players

Cadarius McMiller

A 4-star running back from Tyler, Texas, ranked as the nation's #15 running back and #173 overall prospect by Rivals.

Ra'Shaad Samples

The future running backs coach at the University of Oregon, who developed a strong personal relationship with McMiller during the recruiting process.

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What they’re saying

“I really like the school. Nobody else showed me love like Oregon.”

— Cadarius McMiller, Recruit

“Coach Samp? It's a solid relationship. It just felt right. He's a good dude. To be a great recruiter, you've got to communicate well and build trust, and he's got both down pat.”

— Cadarius McMiller, Recruit

What’s next

With McMiller's commitment, Oregon will look to continue building a top-5 ranked recruiting class for 2027 as they aim to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff.

The takeaway

This decision by Cadarius McMiller highlights the importance of personal relationships in the high-stakes world of college football recruiting. While program prestige and facilities are important factors, the human element of trust and communication can often be the difference-maker in landing top talent.