The Oregon Ducks’ 2025 recruiting class took a devastating blow this week as Trevon Mitchell, a highly touted five-star defensive end and the crown jewel of the Ducks’ defensive future, was arrested just days before his scheduled enrollment. The arrest came after Mitchell allegedly failed a mandatory pre-enrollment drug test, triggering an immediate suspension of his National Letter of Intent and, ultimately, the revocation of his scholarship.
The news has sent shockwaves through Eugene and the college football world. Mitchell, a 6-foot-5, 245-pound edge rusher from Long Beach, California, was ranked as the No. 3 defensive end in the nation and was expected to make an instant impact in the Pac-12 (or soon-to-be Big Ten). His speed off the edge, physicality, and leadership made him the centerpiece of Oregon’s top-10 ranked recruiting class. Now, that class is suddenly in jeopardy.
Sources close to the program confirmed that Mitchell tested positive for multiple banned substances during a standard intake screening, which is typically administered to all incoming student-athletes. Following the test results, local law enforcement executed a search warrant after receiving a tip that Mitchell had allegedly been in possession of controlled substances. The arrest occurred quietly in California, but word quickly spread to Oregon staff.
In a brief, emotional statement released through his family’s attorney, Mitchell expressed deep regret over his actions and acknowledged the gravity of the situation. “I’ve worked my whole life for this opportunity,” Mitchell said. “To let down my family, my coaches, and the Oregon community is something I’ll carry with me forever. This was a mistake, and I own it. I want to take responsibility and rebuild from here.”
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning also addressed the media, visibly disappointed. “This is heartbreaking. Trevon is a young man with immense talent and potential, but we also have a responsibility to uphold the values of our program. This isn’t about talent—it’s about trust, accountability, and growth. We hope Trevon gets the help he needs.”
For now, Mitchell’s future remains uncertain. He is expected to enter a rehabilitation program and potentially reclassify to the 2026 cycle, but any return to Oregon is unlikely. What was once a dream start to a college football career has turned into a cautionary tale—and a massive setback for both Mitchell and the Ducks.