Oregon Leads Race for Top QB Recruit Mencl

Oregon is emerging as the frontrunner to secure the commitment of highly-touted 2027 quarterback Will Mencl. The recruitment picture became clearer when Miami, another contender, received a commitment from quarterback Israel Abrams. This development significantly benefits Oregon's pursuit of Mencl.

National recruiting analyst Adam Gorney noted that Abrams' commitment to Miami effectively removes them from contention for Mencl. This leaves Oregon, Auburn, and Penn State as the primary schools vying for Mencl's services. Mencl, a four-star recruit from Chandler, Arizona, is rated as the No. 7 quarterback in the 2027 class.

Mencl demonstrated exceptional performance during his junior season at Chandler High School, throwing for 3,815 yards and 33 touchdowns with only five interceptions. He also showcased dual-threat capabilities, accumulating 741 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 118 carries. His team reached the Arizona State Open Division championship game.

Oregon's quarterback situation for the upcoming seasons involves Dante Moore returning as the starter for 2026, following a successful 2025 season where he led the Ducks to the College Football Playoff semifinals. After Moore's departure, Dylan Raiola and Akili Smith Jr. are potential successors. Mencl might redshirt or compete for the starting role in 2027, depending on Oregon's strategy, which has historically included acquiring experienced quarterbacks through the transfer portal.