The Oregon Ducks are bringing the band back together for a special weekend in Eugene. As the annual spring game approaches on April 25th, the program has announced that four of its most beloved modern stars will return to Autzen Stadium as honorary coaches, blending past glory with a glimpse of the future.
Quarterback legend Bo Nix, dynamic receiver Tez Johnson, defensive force Kayvon Thibodeaux, and standout cornerback Deommodore Lenoir are all set to roam the sidelines. While their exact coaching roles are to be determined, their presence alone will electrify the atmosphere, offering current players a direct link to Oregon's recent NFL success stories.
This tradition of welcoming back icons adds a rich layer to the spring game. Last year saw former coaches and players like Christian Gonzalez and Bucky Irving in these roles, and this year's quartet raises the star power even higher.
Bo Nix's return is particularly momentous. After a storied two-year tenure under Coach Dan Lanning that included a Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year award, a Heisman finalist nod, and multiple program passing records, Nix is now leading the Denver Broncos. His journey from Eugene to an AFC Championship Game appearance makes his homecoming a must-see event for Duck fans.
He'll be joined by his adopted brother and favorite target, Tez Johnson. The speedy receiver, who now plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, rewrote the Oregon record books with 86 catches in a single season and was a pivotal playmaker for both Nix and Dillon Gabriel. His chemistry with Nix was a hallmark of some of Oregon's most explosive offenses.
Completing this elite group are defensive stalwarts Kayvon Thibodeaux, a dominant pass-rusher for the New York Giants, and Deommodore Lenoir, a key contributor in the San Francisco 49ers' secondary. Their return underscores the complete team excellence of recent Ducks squads and provides invaluable insight for the next generation of Oregon defenders.
This spring game is shaping up to be more than just a scrimmage; it's a celebration of legacy, a bridge between eras, and a powerful reminder of what it means to be a Duck. For fans and players alike, it's a chance to connect with the stars who helped define Oregon football and to feel the momentum building for the season ahead.