When it comes to college football, the Oregon Ducks have always been a force to reckon with. Their recent addition, offensive tackle Isaiah World, has generated some real buzz.
World transferred from Nevada and has a unique connection with two other Ducks, Jahlil Florence and Akili Smith Jr. That bond played a big part in his decision to move to Eugene.
This article digs into World’s journey, why he transferred, and what might be next for him.
Isaiah World’s Journey to Oregon
Isaiah World’s path to the Oregon Ducks is all about connections and friendships. The 6-foot-8, 310-pound offensive tackle, ranked as the No. 1 transfer portal athlete by 247 Sports, has a history with Jahlil Florence and Akili Smith Jr.
They all go back to their days at Lincoln High School in San Diego. That old friendship made a difference for World when he picked Oregon.
High School Connections
World and Florence, though a year apart in school, kept in touch over the years. Florence joined Oregon a year before World and gave him plenty of insight and support.
“Jahlil was one of the big reasons for me transferring. Because we go back all the way since high school,” World shared during Oregon’s media day.
Influence of Akili Smith Jr. and His Father
Another key connection? Akili Smith Jr., a freshman quarterback at Oregon. World stayed in close contact with Smith Jr. before making his move.
Smith Jr.’s father, former Oregon quarterback Akili Smith, also influenced World’s decision. “Being in contact with him and [Smith Jr.], and his dad was always a big influence around Lincoln,” World admitted.
Settling in at Oregon
Now at Oregon for his final season of eligibility, World’s settling in and the expectations are sky-high. He’s landed on the Outland Trophy Award Preseason Watch List.
ESPN projected him as the No. 23 overall pick by the San Francisco 49ers in their 2026 NFL Mock Draft. “World transferred to Oregon after dominating at Nevada, and the 6-foot-8, 310-pounder has all-world potential with his elite reach, elite agility, and experience,” wrote ESPN’s Matt Miller.
Adjusting to Oregon’s Offense
World admits Oregon’s offense runs at a higher tempo than what he’s used to. He’s working hard to adapt, especially with offensive line coach A’lique Terry.
“Coach [A’lique] Terry—he’s definitely—he’s been helping me work on a lot of just being able to stay in my posture, being able to get out of my set faster, and stay square to the line,” World said.
Blending with the New Offensive Line
Oregon’s offensive line has a lot of new faces this year. Center Iapani “Poncho” Laloulu is the only returning veteran.
World brings experience and skill, which should give the line a real boost. “I know offensive line is just an awkward position all around for people to learn and grow into, but I think I had enough experience.
I’m going into my fifth year and just the experience part has helped me in coach Terry being able to take my game to another level,” World explained.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Isaiah World’s football future seems bright. He’s on the Outland Trophy Award Preseason Watch List and projected as a first-round NFL pick.
Still, World says he’s focused on the present and wants to take things day by day. “Usually, I try my best not to pay attention to talks about rankings or any pre-draft rankings.
I just try to take every day just being where my feet are and just going step by step,” he said.
Potential Impact on Oregon’s Season
With World on their roster, the Oregon Ducks have strengthened their offensive line. That could be a big deal for their success this season.
His experience and skills should bring some much-needed stability. “I am enamored with #Oregon T transfer Isaiah World’s film 6’8 with great athleticism, technique, and poise I would not be shocked to see him go top ten come draft day,” noted Hail Mary Sports.
NFL Draft Prospects
When it comes to the NFL Draft, Isaiah World’s prospects look pretty bright. ESPN’s Matt Miller actually projects him as the No. 23 overall pick for the San Francisco 49ers.
Miller points to World’s elite reach, agility, and all that experience as the main reasons. The 49ers need to get younger at key spots, especially left tackle, so World could really fit the bill.
For more details on Isaiah World’s transfer decision, check out the full article on [Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/college/oregon/football/oregon-ducks-isaiah-world-reveals-reason-transfer-portal-decision-jahlil-florence-akili-smith-jr-dan-lanning-alique-terry).
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