Jared Curtis, the No. 1 quarterback prospect for the 2026 class, made headlines today by announcing his commitment to the University of Oregon, choosing the Ducks over the University of Georgia. This decision is a huge victory for Oregon’s football program, marking a significant step in their pursuit of elite talent under head coach Dan Lanning.
Curtis, who has been a highly coveted recruit since his freshman year, has made a name for himself as a dual-threat quarterback with an exceptional arm and impressive mobility. At 6’4″ and weighing 215 pounds, he combines the physical attributes of an NFL-caliber quarterback with the poise and decision-making abilities of someone well beyond his years. His ability to read defenses, deliver accurate passes, and make plays with his legs has made him one of the most highly anticipated recruits in recent memory.
The decision to commit to Oregon over Georgia shocked many in the recruiting world. Georgia, led by head coach Kirby Smart, has built one of the most dominant football programs in recent years, winning back-to-back national championships in 2022 and 2023. Many expected Curtis to gravitate toward the Bulldogs, who have been known for their quarterback development and recruiting success. However, Curtis chose Oregon for a variety of reasons, including the chance to play in a fast-paced offense under offensive coordinator Will Stein.
“I’ve been thinking about this decision for a while,” Curtis said in his announcement. “Oregon offers me a unique opportunity to compete in a system that fits my skill set. I’ve always admired the way they use their quarterbacks, and I believe that Coach Lanning and Coach Stein can help me develop into the best player I can be. The culture at Oregon, the facilities, and the family-like atmosphere made it feel like home.”
Oregon has been building momentum on the recruiting trail, and securing Curtis is a statement of their intent to remain a national contender. The Ducks have been known for their high-flying offense, and the addition of Curtis gives them the quarterback to lead it for the next several years. Curtis is expected to be the centerpiece of Oregon’s recruiting class, which has already begun to shape up as one of the top classes in the nation for 2026.
For Georgia, the loss of Curtis is a tough blow, but they remain a powerhouse in the college football landscape. The Bulldogs have a history of developing quarterbacks who go on to thrive in the NFL, including recent success with quarterbacks like Stetson Bennett, who helped lead the team to multiple championships. Georgia will likely turn its attention to other top-tier quarterbacks in the 2026 class, and their recruiting machine is unlikely to slow down due to one setback.
Oregon’s win here represents a broader trend of the Ducks becoming an increasingly attractive destination for top recruits. Under Dan Lanning’s leadership, the Ducks have created a culture of innovation and intensity. They’ve been able to attract top talent in multiple areas, from skill positions to defense, and now, with Curtis, they have one of the best quarterbacks in the country coming to Eugene. The offensive system under Coach Will Stein, who was hired in 2023, is designed to maximize the talents of a quarterback like Curtis, with a focus on pace and attacking the defense in various ways.
Looking ahead, Curtis will be a focal point of Oregon’s recruiting efforts and a key player in their pursuit of a national championship. The Ducks have a history of competing at the highest levels in college football, and with a player of Curtis’ caliber, they are positioning themselves to be a true contender for years to come. Curtis’ commitment could also have a domino effect, influencing other top recruits to join him in Oregon, further solidifying the Ducks’ future on the national stage.
As for Curtis, his commitment is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and successful college career. With the tools to become one of the best quarterbacks in college football, the pressure will be on him to live up to the expectations. However, if his high school career is any indication, Curtis is more than ready to take on the challenge and lead Oregon back to the top.