The Oregon Ducks concluded their last practice before game week on Wednesday afternoon in Eugene, but there was some noteworthy news that caught fans’ attention.
Reporters observed that starting running back Jordan James was absent at the start of practice, marking the first time he has missed a session this fall. Additionally, defensive lineman My’Keil Gardner was once again missing, making it his fourth straight practice absence.
Afterward, head coach Dan Lanning spoke with the media about fall camp as a whole, starting with remarks about James:
“It’s just precautionary today,” Lanning explained. “He has a lot of wear and tear, so we thought it would be a good day to give him a break.”
This is positive news for the Ducks, who are set to begin the 2024 season in just over a week with a home game against the Idaho Vandals on Saturday, August 31.
However, the news wasn’t as encouraging concerning Gardner, a redshirt freshman lineman.
“My’Keil will likely be out for a while,” Lanning said. “We’re eager to have him back, but it’s not something that will happen quickly. He’s going to be sidelined for some time.”
Gardner participated in one game during his true freshman year in 2023, recording a tackle against Portland State before redshirting. If he misses a significant portion of the 2024 season, he might consider a medical redshirt, allowing him to return in 2025. However, without more information about his injury, it’s difficult to predict what the future holds for this talented defender.
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