On this edition of the Autzen Audibles Podcast, DuckTerritory’s Matt Prehm and Erik Skopil continue their position-by-position preview of the Oregon football roster with a closer look at the Ducks’ linebacker room entering the 2026 season.

After breaking down the defensive line, the series now shifts to the second level of Oregon’s defense. Prehm and Skopil go player-by-player through the linebacker position, discussing the projected depth chart, returning contributors, players pushing for bigger roles, and the biggest questions facing the group before the season begins.

Oregon has talent and athleticism at linebacker, but this is also a room where roles, rotations, and consistency will be major offseason storylines. The Ducks return important pieces such as Jerry Mixon and Devon Jackson, while also needing continued development from the rest of the room to build reliable depth behind the top options.

The discussion focuses on how Oregon’s linebackers fit within Chris Hampton’s defense and how the position can help tie everything together between a talented defensive front and a secondary filled with playmakers. From run fits to coverage responsibilities to communication, the linebacker room will be central to Oregon’s defensive success.

The episode also dives into potential breakout candidates, special teams value, and how the Ducks could structure their linebacker rotation during the 2026 season.