Oregon State Beavers Face Setback as Five Key Players Ruled Out for 2025 Season
The Oregon State Beavers are entering the 2025 season with a significant challenge, as the team confirmed that five key players will be unavailable for the upcoming campaign. This development poses a tough road ahead for head coach Jonathan Smith and his squad, as they look to build on their strong performances from previous seasons in a highly competitive Pac-12 conference.
Among the players sidelined are standout wide receiver Caleb Thomas and defensive lineman Marcus Daniels, two pivotal contributors on both sides of the ball. Thomas, who posted 1,200 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns last season, was expected to be a cornerstone of the Beavers’ offensive attack. Daniels, a disruptive force on the defensive line with eight sacks in 2024, was set to anchor a unit that made significant strides in stopping the run.
In addition to Thomas and Daniels, the Beavers will also be without starting linebacker Ryan Bennett, offensive lineman Jacob Foster, and running back Damien Harris. Bennett’s leadership and tackling prowess will be sorely missed in the heart of the defense, while Foster’s absence leaves a gap in an offensive line that was instrumental in the team’s ground game. Harris, who rushed for over 800 yards and six touchdowns in 2024, was primed to take on an expanded role this season.
Coach Smith acknowledged the setback in a press conference, stating, “Losing players of this caliber is never easy, but it’s part of the game. We have confidence in the depth we’ve built over the years, and this presents an opportunity for younger players to step up and showcase their abilities.”
The Beavers will rely heavily on their depth and development programs to fill these voids. Sophomore wide receiver Jason Reid and freshman defensive lineman Tyrone Wallace are among the players expected to take on increased responsibilities.
While the absences are a blow to the Beavers’ aspirations, the team remains determined to compete and make a mark in the 2025 season.
