The Oregon Ducks continue their meteoric rise on the national recruiting trail, this time securing a monumental commitment from one of the top players in the 2026 class. Head coach **Dan Lanning** and his staff have landed **five-star defensive end Malik Thompson**, a game-changing prospect who is widely regarded as one of the top overall players in the country.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds, Thompson hails from powerhouse **Mater Dei High School** in California — the same school that has produced several college and NFL stars. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. In his sophomore campaign, Thompson racked up **68 tackles, 16 sacks, and 24 tackles for loss**, dominating competition and earning attention from nearly every Power Five school in the country.
Thompson chose Oregon over programs such as **Alabama, Georgia, USC, and Ohio State**, citing the Ducks’ defensive scheme, coaching staff, and culture as key reasons behind his decision.
“Oregon felt like home from the beginning,” Thompson said in a statement. “Coach Lanning is building something special up there. He’s a defensive mind I trust, and I know he’ll help me reach my full potential — not just as a player, but as a man.”
This commitment marks yet another milestone for Dan Lanning, who continues to elevate Oregon into the elite tier of college football. Since taking over in Eugene, Lanning has stacked highly ranked recruiting classes and brought a defensive edge that matches his Georgia pedigree. Thompson’s commitment sends a strong message to the rest of the college football world — the Ducks are not just about flash anymore; they’re building to win national titles.
Thompson’s impact goes beyond his on-field play. As one of the most vocal leaders in his class, his commitment is likely to influence other top-tier recruits in the 2026 cycle. Oregon already has a strong foundation, and Thompson’s early pledge gives the Ducks valuable momentum as they work to build another top-five class.
Analysts believe that with Thompson anchoring the edge, Oregon’s future defensive front could be among the most feared in the country. His rare ability to disrupt plays in both the pass and run game will be a cornerstone of the Ducks’ defensive identity for years to come.
For Oregon fans, this is a major win — and a reminder that under Dan Lanning, the Ducks are hunting for championships, not just headlines.