Oregon Enters the Race for Top 2028 Recruit
The Oregon Ducks are setting their sights on the future as they compete for highly-coveted four-star edge rusher Elijah Tillman. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-7 and weighing 210 pounds, the Loganville, Georgia native has emerged as one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in the 2028 recruiting class.
Tillman, ranked as high as No. 152 nationally by Rivals, recently revealed that both Oregon and Miami are among the programs he is most eager to visit. The Ducks extended their offer in late April 2026, while the Hurricanes had already reached out to the young prospect back in January 2025, giving them a head start in building a relationship.
Why Tillman Fits the Ducks’ Defensive Plans
Oregon’s coaching staff sees tremendous potential in Tillman’s imposing frame, which still has room to develop. The Ducks are preparing for life after current defensive standouts Matayo Uiagelelei and Teitum Tuioti, both expected to declare for the NFL Draft following the 2026 season. Adding Tillman would complement an already impressive 2027 class that includes five-star edge rusher Rashad Streets.
Recruiting from Georgia has been a priority for head coach Dan Lanning, and landing Tillman could help reestablish the program’s presence in the Peach State. The last commitment the Ducks secured from Georgia was Dayton Raiola in early 2026.
The Cristobal Factor in This Recruiting Battle
The competition with Miami adds an intriguing storyline, as former Oregon coach Mario Cristobal now leads the Hurricanes. Cristobal, who elevated Oregon’s recruiting during his tenure before guiding Miami to the National Championship game, has frequently crossed paths with Lanning on the recruiting trail. The two programs have battled for several high-profile recruits recently, with Miami successfully flipping cornerback Ai’King Hall from Oregon earlier in the 2027 cycle.
As both programs intensify their pursuit of Tillman, the recruiting battle between these powerhouse programs promises to be one of the most compelling storylines heading into the 2028 cycle.
