Eugene, Oregon – The University of Oregon football program faces a significant challenge following news that star wide receiver Evan Stewart sustained a serious knee injury, potentially impacting his availability for the entire 2025 college football season.
News of the injury was recently reported by CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz on Friday, June 6, casting a shadow over the Ducks’ preparations for the upcoming year. While the team has not formally confirmed the specifics, the injury is widely believed to be a torn patellar tendon.
Severity and Recovery Timeline
A torn patellar tendon is a severe injury that typically requires an extensive recovery period. Medical experts estimate the standard timeline for rehabilitation ranges from six months to a full year. This prognosis places Stewart’s potential return between December 2025 and June 2026, a window that could see him miss all or most of the 2025 season.
The injury occurred after Stewart’s impressive debut season with the Ducks in 2024, following his transfer from Texas A&M. A highly touted former five-star recruit, Stewart quickly established himself as a primary target in the Oregon offense.
Impactful 2024 Season
In his first year wearing the Oregon uniform, Stewart recorded 48 receptions for 613 yards and five touchdowns. His performance was a vital component of the Ducks’ aerial attack. A particular highlight came in the hard-fought 32-31 victory over Ohio State, where Stewart delivered a standout performance, catching seven passes for 149 yards and scoring a touchdown.
Stewart’s 2024 campaign was not entirely without physical setbacks, as he also sustained a back injury following the Ducks’ win over Penn State in the Big Ten Conference championship game. Despite this, his overall production and impact were significant.
Decision to Return and Anticipated Role
Stewart was considered a prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft but ultimately made the decision to return to Oregon for his senior year. His return was widely anticipated to solidify his position as the team’s primary receiving option, especially following the departures of key teammates like Tez Johnson, Terrance Ferguson, and Traeshon Holden after the 2024 season. His experience, talent, and rapport with the quarterback were expected to be cornerstones of the 2025 offense.
Implications for the Ducks Offense in 2025
Should Evan Stewart be sidelined for the 2025 season as the severity of his injury suggests, the University of Oregon’s passing game would face a significant challenge in replacing his production and presence. The offensive strategy would need to adapt, relying more heavily on other members of the receiving corps.
Players who would likely see increased targets and responsibility include redshirt junior Justius Lowe, redshirt senior Gary Bryant Jr., senior transfer Malik Benson, and freshman Dakorien Moore. The development and performance of these athletes will be crucial in mitigating the loss of Stewart’s contributions. The team will look to them to step into more prominent roles and help maintain the explosiveness of the offense.
Looking Ahead
The University of Oregon is scheduled to commence their 2025 season on Saturday, August 30, with a 1 p.m. kickoff against FCS opponent Montana State. The game is slated to be held at Autzen Stadium in Eugene. The potential absence of a player of Stewart’s caliber will undoubtedly influence the team’s dynamics and offensive game plan heading into that opening matchup and throughout the season. The focus now shifts to Stewart’s recovery and the ability of the remaining receiving unit to rise to the occasion in his potential absence.
