The Beavers' Fall Camp Battles: A Deeper Look at Oregon State's 2026 Season
As the Oregon State Beavers kick off their first fall camp under head coach JaMarcus Shephard, the buzz in Corvallis is palpable. Personally, I think this season could be a turning point for the program, but it all hinges on how these position battles shake out. What makes this particularly fascinating is that several key spots are wide open, creating an opportunity for both seasoned veterans and fresh talent to step up. Let’s dive into the most intriguing battles and what they mean for the Beavers’ future.
Receiver: A Wide-Open Race with High Stakes
The receiver position is arguably the most competitive group on the roster, and for good reason. Eddie Freauff’s return is a huge boost, but the real drama lies in spots 3 through 6. Aeryn Hampton, Cynai Thomas, and a host of others are vying for roles, and freshman Jesse Legree is already turning heads. What many people don’t realize is that this battle isn’t just about talent—it’s about chemistry. Shephard’s offense thrives on precise routes and timing, so who clicks with the quarterback will matter just as much as who has the best hands.
From my perspective, this competition could define the Beavers’ offensive identity. If Legree lives up to the hype, he could be the deep threat they’ve been missing. But don’t sleep on Karson Boschma or Jameson Powell—both have the potential to be breakout stars. If you take a step back and think about it, this receiver battle is a microcosm of the program’s larger transition: blending experience with youth to build something sustainable.
Safety: Experience Meets Opportunity
The safety position is another area where experience is colliding with raw talent. The additions of Xander Chisolm and Marquis Raspberry bring much-needed veteran presence, but the younger players like Isaiah Houi and Zephen Walker are hungry to prove themselves. One thing that immediately stands out is Chisolm’s physical transformation—adding 15 pounds could make him a force in the secondary.
What this really suggests is that the Beavers are prioritizing versatility. Sean Craig’s likely move to nickel and Trey Glasper’s established role show that Shephard wants players who can adapt. In my opinion, this battle will come down to who can read the field fastest and communicate effectively. With a young defense, leadership at safety could be the difference between a good season and a great one.
Right Tackle: A Logjam of Talent
The offensive line is often overlooked, but the right tackle battle is one of the most critical. Teko Shoats has the edge after starting in the spring game, but Tyler Voltin’s return complicates things. Will Larkins and Jacob Anderson are also in the mix, and if Van Wells returns at center, the domino effect could shuffle the entire line.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the ripple effect it could have. If Voltin moves to tackle, it could solidify the line but leave a gap at guard. From my perspective, this battle is as much about depth as it is about starting roles. Shephard needs a line he can trust, especially with a young quarterback under center.
No. 3 Running Back: Speed vs. Power
The running back room is a study in contrasts. AJ Newberry and Cornell Hatcher Jr. are the clear leaders, but the No. 3 spot is up for grabs. Jake Reichle brings power, Kourdey Glass offers speed, and Skyler Jackson and Tre Garrison are wildcards. What many people don’t realize is that this battle could shape the Beavers’ offensive strategy.
If Glass wins out, it could signal a shift toward a more explosive, speed-based attack. But if Reichle takes the role, it could mean a heavier focus on short-yardage and goal-line situations. Personally, I think this is where Shephard’s creativity will shine. By leveraging different backs for different scenarios, he can keep defenses guessing.
No. 3 Cornerback: Youth and Uncertainty
The cornerback position is perhaps the most unpredictable. Sailasa Vadrawale III and TJ Crandall are locks, but after that, it’s anyone’s game. Exodus Ayers is the favorite on paper, but his legal situation adds a layer of uncertainty. Noble Thomas Jr.’s injury and Kai Wheaton’s rapid development further complicate matters.
A detail that I find especially interesting is Wheaton’s 14-pound weight gain over the summer. For a freshman, that’s a significant transformation, and it could make him a dark horse in this race. If you take a step back and think about it, this battle highlights the program’s need for depth in the secondary. With the Pac-12’s high-powered offenses, having reliable cornerbacks is non-negotiable.
The Bigger Picture: What These Battles Mean for Oregon State
These position battles aren’t just about filling spots—they’re about setting the tone for the Shephard era. What this really suggests is that the Beavers are building a culture of competition, where no one’s role is guaranteed. In my opinion, this is exactly what the program needs after years of inconsistency.
One thing that immediately stands out is the balance between experience and youth. Shephard is clearly prioritizing players who can contribute now while also developing the next wave of talent. This raises a deeper question: Can Oregon State sustain this momentum beyond 2026? With the new NCAA rules allowing seniors to return, the Beavers could be poised for a multi-year run.
Final Thoughts
As fall camp unfolds, these battles will be the storylines to watch. Personally, I think the receiver and safety competitions will be the most telling—they’ll reveal not just who’s ready to play, but who’s ready to lead. What makes this season particularly exciting is the sense of possibility. With a new coach, a mix of seasoned and young talent, and a program hungry for success, the Beavers could surprise a lot of people.
If you take a step back and think about it, this is more than just a football season—it’s a reset. Oregon State has the pieces to build something special, but it all starts with these position battles. In my opinion, the teams that win championships are the ones that embrace competition, and that’s exactly what the Beavers are doing. Let the games begin.
