As the Oregon State Beavers gear up for fall camp in 2026, the focus is on players who stand to gain or lose ground in the team's depth chart. With a significant amount of roster turnover, the competition for spots is fierce, and several players are poised to make dramatic moves up or down the chart. Here's a breakdown of the key players to watch, along with my personal insights and analysis.
The Rising Stars
Jameson Powell and Cynai Thomas: Receivers on the Rise
What makes this duo particularly fascinating is their potential to become the next big thing in Oregon State's receiving corps. Both Powell and Thomas have shown impressive growth this summer, adding 10 pounds each, which will be crucial in their development against older, more seasoned players. Their work with the first and second teams during the spring game indicates a bright future, and their physical growth could be the key to unlocking their full potential. Personally, I think they could both become starting receivers by the end of the season, challenging the more experienced players for reps.
DeCorion Temple: Tight End with Potential
The Central Michigan transfer, DeCorion Temple, is one of four senior tight ends and seven overall on the roster. His role is already secured, but the question is, how far can he go? Temple has the potential to stand out from the crowd and become a major contributor. His size and skill set make him a valuable asset, and with the right coaching, he could become a go-to target for the quarterback. In my opinion, he has the makings of a standout player and could be the surprise package of the season.
Lolani Finau and Cameron Hewitt: Defensive Tackles with Upside
The late additions to the roster, Lolani Finau and Cameron Hewitt, are both junior college transfers with significant upside. While the position is already crowded with experienced players like Jacob Schuster, Tygee Hill, and Tevita Pome'e, their presence is a testament to the team's need for depth. If either of these transfers makes the two-deep, it would be a major coup for the team and the personnel department. What many people don't realize is that these transfers are often the unsung heroes, bringing fresh talent and energy to the team.
The Players to Watch Out For
Malachi Durant: Receiver in a Logjam
Malachi Durant, the No. 3 returning receiver, is in a bit of a logjam. With five transfers and four freshmen added to the room, he could slide behind less experienced players and be in a battle for reps. His role is already secure, but the competition for playing time could be intense. If he doesn't step up and prove himself, he could find himself in a less prominent role. This raises a deeper question: how will the team manage the competition for reps, and will it impact the overall performance?
Will Larkins and Jacob Anderson: Offensive Linemen in a Battle
Both Will Larkins and Jacob Anderson are entering their fourth years and contending for a starting job. The pressure is on, as only one can start, and redshirts are no longer an option. If Van Wells returns, Larkins and Anderson could both be out of the starting rotation. However, they are both well-positioned to start in 2027, which could be a silver lining for them. This situation highlights the importance of depth and the need for players to step up and prove themselves.
Exodus Ayers: Cornerback with Uncertainty
Exodus Ayers is a cornerback with a lot on the line. There is still uncertainty about his ability to play due to his legal case. This uncertainty adds an extra layer of complexity to the team's plans. If Ayers is unable to play, it will impact the team's strategy and could create opportunities for other players to step up. This situation underscores the importance of legal clarity for athletes and the potential impact on their careers.
Luke Levengood: Defensive Tackle in a Battle
Luke Levengood, a fifth-year senior, is facing a battle for significant reps regardless. However, the additions of Finau and Hewitt must come at the expense of someone. This situation highlights the competitive nature of the team and the need for players to constantly prove themselves. It also raises the question of how the team will manage the depth chart and who will ultimately benefit from the additions.
The Takeaway
As the Oregon State Beavers prepare for fall camp, the focus is on players who stand to gain or lose ground in the team's depth chart. The competition is fierce, and the potential for dramatic moves is high. The rising stars, like Powell, Thomas, and Temple, are poised to make their mark, while the players to watch out for, like Durant and Ayers, are in crucial battles for reps. The team's success will depend on how they manage the competition and the potential for hidden gems to emerge. From my perspective, the 2026 season promises to be an exciting one, with the potential for both triumphs and surprises.
