Ducks Digest

Rodrick Pleasant Breaks Down Oregon Commitment

The addition of Rodrick Pleasant gives Oregon the two highest-rated defensive backs in California from the 2023 recruiting class.

Max Torres

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One of the nation's most-anticipated recruitments finally came to an end on Wednesday.

Gardena (Calif.) Junipero Serra cornerback Rodrick Pleasant announced his commitment to Oregon, picking the Ducks over the hometown USC Trojans. He spoke with Ducks Digest about his commitment.

The decision was not one he made lightly, picking his future home on his birthday.

"I just wanted to make the right decision. It's been a lot going through this process and I just want to be happy," Pleasant said.

Oregon's newest commit said that coaching staffs didn't find out about his decision until he put on his hat.

In the time leading up to his decision he was able to lean on his family, coaches and even called on Serra great Adoree Jackson to help him with the recruiting process.

"I had talked to him this morning. Just to try to get guidance and try to figure this thing out for me."

Rodrick Pleasant is the headliner of Oregon's recruiting efforts in Southern California.  :: Photos: Rodrick Plesant/Oregon Athletics | Graphic: Kenny Breland

Now that he's signed with the Ducks, there's one thing he's most excited about with Oregon.

"Being a part of that special class. Special group of guys."

Oregon's 2023 recruiting class now ranks No. 8 in the country according to 247Sports. That haul is loaded with Southern California talent including cornerback Daylen Austin. The duo of Pleasant and Austin gives Dan Lanning and Demetrice Martin signatures from the top two defensive backs in California.

Relationships with the Oregon staff were key in Pleasant's decision, particularly the one he's built with cornerbacks coach Demetrice Martin, but it was a team effort in the end.

"He's been recruiting me for a long time," Pleasant said. "I built a great relationship with Coach (Dan) Lanning and Coach Tosh (Lupoi)."

The message the Ducks were sending throughout his recruitment was clear, and one that clearly resonated with the Under Armour All-American.

"They let me know that I was a priority and I can be something special there and that I can come and make an impact."

Coming to a decision wasn't easy for Pleasant. Just how much was a commitment weighing on him?

"Every day. Just wanted to make the right decision and pick the right school. So it's been weighing on me for a long time."

He shared a long hug with his mother after announcing his commitment and is relieved to have finally made it to the finish line.

"Just a sign of relief," he said of the moment. "She's not stressed anymore. We're not stressed anymore."

Pleasant is well aware of the buzz and acclaim he's garnered on the football field and on the track over the course of his high school career. However, the legacy he hopes to leave at Serra stretches beyond sports.

"A great person at the end of the day. Ultimately more than football. Ultimately more than track. Just a great person."

READ MORE: Rodrick Plesant commits to Oregon

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Max Torres
MAX TORRES

Max Torres is the publisher and lead editor of Ducks Digest. He's covered the Oregon football and recruiting beats for four years. He's based out of Long Beach, CA and travels around Southern California and the country covering top high school football prospects.

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