The Oregon Ducks’ 2023 signing class had a number of intriguing players, including 4-star EDGE Matayo Uiagalelei and 5-star wide receiver Jurrion Dickey.
But those who love to pore over game tape to find new recruits were instantly captivated by 4-star tight end Kenyon Sadiq, the top player in the state of Idaho. With a 6-foot-3, 220-pound physique, Sadiq was regarded as the 79th best player in the class. His high school tape showed how well he could glide and get past opponents in open space, which would have left you speechless.
As a true freshman, Sadiq didn’t get much field time since players like Terrance Ferguson and Patrick Herbert had all the power in the tight end room. However, observing from the sidelines inspired him to work hard all season long.
Drew Mehringer, the tight end coach for Oregon, asked on Thursday, “You want to talk about a kid that was hungry to get on the field?” “Coach, what am I supposed to do?,” he said. What must I accomplish? What must I accomplish? You have to continue working, you know. You haven’t demonstrated your superiority. “All right, I’m going to keep working,” he says. I will continue to work.
Throughout the season, Sadiq saw little action and had a few receptions, but his most memorable play was a touchdown pass he received in the Fiesta Bowl victory over the Liberty Flames as a true freshman.
In retrospect, the instance might have had a significant role in Sadiq’s success in the future.
Mehringer remarked, “There’s nothing like going out there and playing against somebody who just really wants to beat you in every manner.” “So it’s a pretty cool first touchdown, him scoring in the Fiesta Bowl.”
It’s not like Sadiq’s starting place became available this offseason, with Ferguson and Herbert both returning to Eugene for another season. However, he is becoming more at ease with the offense and is prepared to make every effort to get into the field.