Locked On Ducks - Daily Podcast On Oregon Ducks RECRUITING WIN: Oregon Lands Son of Ducks' Legend, Sam Ngata Becomes Just 2nd 2027 Recruit of Cycle
Jan 26, 2026
Early 2027 recruiting gets a headline with a legacy linebacker commit and discussions about his fit and measurements. The conversation digs into tape study, position versatility, and projections for the incoming class size. There is a deep look at tight end usage and anticipated production in 2026, plus debate over preseason top rankings and playoff format implications.
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Legacy Recruit Sparks Fan Nostalgia
- Spencer highlights Sam Nata as a legacy recruit and son of Haloti Nata, noting the emotional pull for fans.
- He stresses Sam's recruiting profile is modest compared to his father's legendary status but still meaningful to the program.
Stars Don't Tell Whole Story
- Spencer observes Sam Nata's recruiting rating is modest (three-star) but versatile, playing OLB and tight end in high school.
- He argues physical traits like length and technical soundness give Nata developmental upside despite lower ranking.
Length And Instincts Matter Most
- Spencer breaks down Nata's body type (listed 6'3.5"–6'5", ~215 lbs) and positional usage as a second-level linebacker and occasional blitzer.
- He emphasizes length and instincts as traits that translate well to college schemes even without elite burst.