Last weekend was unkind to the Oregon Ducks‘ depth along the defensive line. With the announcement that all four starters would return, much of the depth that Oregon had built decided to depart via the transfer portal.
And while all four starters are returning, adding to the defensive line in the portal themselves has to be one of head coach Dan Lanning‘s biggest goals before spring practices begin.
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Jerome Simmons, a defensive tackle from the UL Monroe Warhawks, could help that cause as he’s expected to visit Oregon in the coming days, per CBS Sports’ Chris Hummer.
The 6-foot-4, 340-pounder from Bamberg, SC, originally began his college career at Highland Community College, where he spent two seasons. From there, he was rated as a four-star JUCO prospect and the No. 2 defensive lineman in 2024 before committing to South Carolina.
After not appearing in a single game for the Gamecocks in 2024, as he utilized a redshirt, Simmons decided to transfer to UL Monroe. He played in eight games for the Warhawks, totaling 10 tackles and a pass breakup before entering the portal at the end of the season.
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Along with visiting Oregon, Simmons will visit NC State and Florida in the coming days.
With so much of their depth being lost along the interior, the Ducks would benefit from adding the former Warhawks’ size and experience, as he’ll be a redshirt senior next season.
Simmons will have one season of eligibility.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: UL Monroe DT Jerome Simmons to visit Oregon in coming days
