With the college football offseason in full swing, Oregon Ducks standout left tackle Josh Conerly has made a monumental decision. Announced on Tuesday, Conerly declared his intention to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, marking a pivotal moment in his athletic journey. This move comes as no surprise given his exceptional performance and rising draft stock. Conerly’s decision not only reflects his readiness for professional play but also underscores the high regard scouts and analysts hold for his talent.

Embarking on a New Chapter: Conerly Sets His Sights on NFL Success

A Promising Journey Begins

Josh Conerly arrived at Oregon as the program’s lone five-star recruit in 2022, during Dan Lanning’s inaugural year as head coach. From the outset, it was clear that Conerly possessed extraordinary potential. As a freshman, he quickly adapted to the rigors of collegiate football, serving as a backup to an already formidable offensive line. The following year, with four of the five starting offensive linemen graduating, Conerly seamlessly transitioned into the starting left tackle role. Despite occasional penalties, his performance was commendable from the start.The 2024 season saw Conerly elevate his game even further. Playing nearly 1,000 snaps, he allowed just one sack and nine quarterback pressures—a remarkable achievement for any lineman. Early-season challenges against Idaho and Boise State notwithstanding, Conerly and the Oregon offensive line soon found their rhythm. By midseason, Conerly had established himself as a near-perfect pass blocker, showcasing his skills in critical moments.

Rising Star on the Radar

Conerly’s ascent in draft rankings began to accelerate in the latter half of the 2024 season. Starting with the Illinois game, his performances became increasingly impressive. Scouts took notice of his consistent excellence, particularly in key matchups. His ability to neutralize elite pass rushers and create running lanes for Oregon’s offense earned him widespread acclaim. While it is still early to predict his exact draft position, many experts anticipate Conerly will be selected within the first or second round, possibly among the first tackles chosen.

Beyond the Numbers: The Impact of Leadership

Beyond his statistical achievements, Conerly’s leadership qualities have been instrumental in shaping the Oregon offensive line. His presence instilled confidence in teammates and elevated the overall performance of the unit. Coaches frequently praised his work ethic and dedication to improvement, attributes that are highly valued in the NFL. Conerly’s decision to forgo his final year of college eligibility signifies not only his readiness for the next level but also his commitment to pursuing excellence.

Forging Ahead: Preparing for the Next Level

As Conerly prepares for the NFL Draft, he remains focused on refining his craft. Training camps and pre-draft evaluations provide valuable opportunities to showcase his talents to prospective teams. The transition from college to professional football is fraught with challenges, but Conerly’s resilience and adaptability position him well for success. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await the day when he takes the field in an NFL uniform, ready to make his mark on the sport.

A Legacy in the Making

Josh Conerly’s journey from a highly touted recruit to a top NFL prospect exemplifies the path of a true athlete. His contributions to the Oregon Ducks have left an indelible mark on the program. As he embarks on this new chapter, Conerly carries with him the lessons learned and the experiences gained during his time at Oregon. The future holds great promise for this talented left tackle, who is poised to become a cornerstone player in the NFL.