Da'Jaun Riggs Breaks Down Oregon Commitment

The newest Duck goes in-depth on his decision to play for Dan Lanning and Carlos Locklyn.

Moments ago, 2024 Washington, D.C. running back Da'Jaun Riggs announced his commitment to the Oregon Ducks. 

The 5-foot-10, 199-pound back spoke with Ducks Digest about why Oregon was the school for him.

"Oregon was the call because of Coach Lock (Carlos Locklyn)," Riggs said. "I saw something in him that I didn't see in a lot of running back coaches. I feel like he can get me to where I need to be in life--not only for football but in life, with jobs, being a father and things of that nature."

Riggs and his future position coach connected on a different level during his multiple trips to Eugene.

"We have similar backgrounds. Me and him had to work for what we had to get, so I know he's gonna push me the same way I'm gonna push him to be a better coach. Just being around him, getting to know him and what he's been through his whole life was really a great thing. That was a major piece on why I came to Oregon. I know if I work hard and do what I have to do I'm going to be very impactful at the University of Oregon."

There were a lot of different things that made the Ducks appealing, but one element set them apart from other schools.

"Offense. One of my important things was how people use their backs. A lot of schools say their back are very versatile but really their backs are not that versatile. Coach (Will) Stein understood it and watching film with him and him telling me how his offense is was one of the major reasons why I came to the University of Oregon--because I saw how their offense was and how they use their backs at all positions."

Oregon's head coach played a role in this recruitment as well and Riggs, like many other recruits, loves Dan Lanning's energy.

"Dan Lanning's a cool guy," he said. "Before I left and came back he played a little video for me and my family. My Mom bursted out in tears of joy, so him doing that meant a lot to me. Every time he sees me he always has great energy. He also spends a lot of times with his players. He's not always just talking about football, but he's talking about things outside of football. He makes sure you're good on and off the field. 

According to Riggs, the Ducks are getting a player that is a special blend of some of the best offensive players the NFL has seen in recent years.

"They're getting a Deebo Samuel/Christian McCaffrey type of guy plus a little bit of Shady (LeSean) McCoy."

Riggs doesn't plan to enroll early but did have a message to share with Duck fans.

"You're getting a guy. Let's make this world go crazy."