Despite his draft stock surging during the 2025 season, Oregon Ducks defensive tackle A’Mauri Washington has decided to return to Eugene for one more season.
Washington was a four-star recruit in the 2023 class, ranking as the No. 42 defensive lineman and No. 7 player in Arizona, per 247 Sports. He appeared in eight games as a true freshman, contributing two tackles. He saw more action in 2024, playing in all 14 games and finishing with 10 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and two pass breakups.
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But this season was Washington’s breakout year, as he started every game for the Ducks and recorded 33 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and seven pass breakups, routinely wreaking havoc on opposing offenses.
Along the way, Washington’s name generated significant draft buzz, with ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. floating him as a potential Round 1 talent come the 2026 draft.
Despite that, Washington has decided to return to Oregon for his senior campaign, running it back alongside fellow defensive tackle Bear Alexander. The duo have been dominant all season long on the interior of the Ducks defense, stymying opponents’ run game and collapsing the pocket, allowing rushing lanes to open up for edge rushers Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti.
The NFL is certainly interested in Washington, but teams will have to wait one more year for the dominant defensive tackle.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon Ducks DT A’Mauri Washington to return in 2026
