Oregon Ducks Secure 5-Star Commit Kendre Harrison Despite Bill Belichick’s Hiring at North Carolina
In a significant development, five-star tight end Kendre Harrison has reaffirmed his commitment to the Oregon Ducks, despite the recent hiring of legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick at his hometown school, the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Harrison, a highly coveted recruit from Reidsville, North Carolina, committed to Oregon on November 30 and remains resolute in his decision. When asked about Belichick’s hiring at North Carolina, Harrison told Rivals, “Think that it’s a good thing for the school and program. I’m 1000000% locked in with Oregon.”
Harrison’s commitment to Oregon is a testament to the program’s growing reputation under coach Dan Lanning. The Ducks have had success in recruiting top talent, and Harrison’s decision is a significant boost to their 2026 recruiting class.
Harrison cited his relationship with the coaching staff, particularly tight ends coach Drew Mehringer, as a key factor in his decision. “I love coach Lanning. I love the coaching staff. I just love the school. I love everything about Oregon,” Harrison told On3’s Max Torres.
The five-star tight end is also planning to play basketball for the Oregon Ducks under coach Dana Altman. Harrison is ranked as the No. 1 tight end in the 2026 recruiting class by 247Sports and as a top-50 basketball recruit by ESPN.
Oregon’s 2026 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation, according to On3’s industry rankings. Harrison joins a talented group of commits, including four-star offensive lineman Kodi Green, four-star running back Tradarian Ball, and four-star quarterback Jonas Williams.
Harrison’s commitment to Oregon is a significant coup for the program, and he is excited about the prospect of achieving greatness in Eugene. “I feel like Oregon has the number one class in 2026 and 2025 for a reason,” Harrison said. “I feel like Oregon is the number one team in the country right now for a reason… I feel like I could do very legendary things there in Eugene.”
