Bill Belichick’s first year as the HC of the UNC has not turned out great, with 31 players entering the transfer portal. Among them is DL D’Antre Robinson, one of the biggest names, who is moving to the Oregon Ducks. Speaking with USA Today, he explained the reason behind this decision.

“With Oregon, the way they deliver, how hard it is to come here, how hard it is to work here,” Robinson said. “You know, they have the resume that tells you if you’re a D-lineman, it’s almost guaranteed, you come in and work hard, you come in and be the guy, you come here and work and do your thing, you’re basically gonna go to the league.”

The Ducks have sent over seven or eight D-linemen to the NFL Draft in the last four years. Derrick Harmon (DT), Jordan Burch (EDGE), and Jamaree Caldwell (DT) were in the 2025 NFL Draft. Robinson also wants that chance and made the move based on that, calling his decision a ‘no-brainer.’

Despite a solid run under Bill Belichick, recording 39 tackles, half a sack, and a forced fumble last season, Robinson believes the Ducks are on a different level regarding getting guys ready for the NFL. He wants to be in an environment that will challenge him every day.

Many transfers make the jump only after fully knowing their starting role in other programs, but that’s not the case with the 6’4 D-lineman. He is taking a chance on himself, not that he’s not talented. Robinson will join a rotation that features names like Bear Alexander, A’Mauri Washington, Matayo Uiagalelei, and Teitum Tuioti. He’ll have a serious amount of catching up to do if he wants to avoid sitting on the bench.

Robinson wants to learn from them—especially Alexander’s strength and Washington’s quickness off the line. He wants to add those traits to his own game. Robinson also mentioned Aydin Breland and said he is trying to learn from his pass-rushing moves.

Matt Johnson is also on Robinson’s list: “Matt Johnson’s work ethic is super crazy. He made me want to work even harder.” These players are helping shape how he trains and improves. The plan is to be a sponge, learn as much as possible, and make your way to the NFL.

Even if Robinson doesn’t make the starting gig right away, he’s got two years of eligibility left. That’s plenty of time to make a name in the Big Ten and hopefully make the league in the next year or two.

Expectations for the 2026 season ride on the backs of Oregon’s front seven

The Ducks’ entire starting defensive line has skipped the NFL Draft and come back for ‘one last ride.’ New Defensive Coordinator Chris Hampton will oversee the play. This ‘stay-back’ culture also influenced Robinson’s decision.

Defensive tackles Bear Alexander and A’Mauri Washington will start in the middle, forcing opponents to quit the inside run game. Edges Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti will provide the pass-rushing punch. The two have played hundreds of snaps together. Meanwhile, Jerry Mixon and Devon Jackson will take charge of the linebacker corps.

With this many starters returning, everyone expects them to be the most physical and dominant defense in the Big Ten. And that’s not an exaggeration by any stretch.