As the Oregon State Beavers find themselves in an abandoned Pac-12, they’ll lean on their top 10 returning players to keep them relevant.
Change has been a defining feature of college football in 2024, with the Oregon State Beavers experiencing significant transitions. They have a new head coach, Trent Bray, and a revised partnership with the Mountain West for scheduling, which will lead the Beavers into new challenges in the Pac-12.
Who are the top 10 returning players who will aid in the Beavers’ rebuilding efforts?
Oregon State Beavers’ Top 10 Returners in 2024
Evaluating returning players is tricky in the era of the transfer portal. Thus, we’ve included transfer athletes listed on each team’s roster as fall camp begins, along with players from last year.
10) Van Wells, Center
A candidate for the Rimington Trophy, Wells transferred from Colorado and has played 11 games with over 1,000 snaps during his two seasons there. He has two years of eligibility remaining and will reinforce an already strong offensive line.
9) Jack Kane, Safety
Kane contributed 23 tackles and three pass breakups over nine games in 2023, adding experience to a secondary facing changes. Standing at 5’10” and 187 pounds, his toughness and football IQ will be vital as he steps up to fill the void left by Kitan Oladapo.
8) Isaiah Chisom, Linebacker
After redshirting in 2023, Chisom showcased his potential in five games, totaling 14 tackles, four tackles for loss, one sack, and one pass breakup. Although he’s on the smaller side at 6’0″ and 218 pounds, his tenacity and skill set are promising for the Beavers’ linebacker unit.
7) Takari Hickle, EDGE
In his sophomore season, Hickle recorded six tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks in eight games. He has the physical attributes for the EDGE position at 6’3″ and 272 pounds, and he is expected to make a larger impact as he gains more experience.
6) Darrius Clemons, Wide Receiver
Clemons, a 6’3″, 211-pound transfer from Michigan, brings valuable experience after playing for a national champion. He’s primed to increase his target opportunities after catching four passes for 40 yards in his time at Michigan.
5) Ben Gulbranson, Quarterback
Despite being overshadowed in 2023, Gulbranson displayed success in 2022, throwing for 1,455 yards and nine touchdowns. With new receiving options like Clemons, he’s set to reclaim his starting role in 2024 behind a strong offensive line.
4) Noble Thomas Jr., Safety
Having played in six games in 2023, Thomas posted 19 tackles and three pass breakups. As a redshirt sophomore, he is expected to anchor the secondary with his hard-hitting style and intensity, especially under Coach Bray’s guidance.
3) Jam Griffin, Running Back
After some time at Ole Miss, Griffin returns to Oregon State, where he previously had a solid season, rushing for 488 yards in 2022. Familiarity with the program should help him thrive.
2) Anthony Hankerson, Running Back
Transferring from Colorado, Hankerson brings speed and versatility after rushing for 593 yards and four touchdowns in his time there. He’s also a threat as a receiver, which could enhance the Beavers’ multi-dimensional rushing attack.
1) Joshua Gray, Offensive Line
A second-team All-Pac-12 pick, Gray has started 44 games and has been crucial for a strong offensive unit that excelled in the ground game while allowing only 19 sacks. With prospects of NFL attention, he’s key to the Beavers’ success moving forward.
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