The Oregon Ducks, led by Dan Lanning, are set to face Curt Cignetti’s Indiana Hoosiers in Week 7. It’s a tough game where the Ducks will need every bit of the firepower they can accumulate. One such weapon in their arsenal was projected WR1 Evan Stewart; however, his injury recovery so far has been tough. But now, in a recent update, optimism is finally brewing.

Ewan Stewart, a top returning wide receiver for Dan Lanning, tore his patellar tendon in his knee in early June. It was a major season-ending injury blow, and Dan Lanning, with the transfer portal closed already, turned to his junior tight end. So, instead of acknowledging the massive blow, Lanning highlighted the quality, Kenyon Sadiq brings to offset Stewart’s loss. “Our tight end has had an unbelievable offseason. He’s been an integral part of our team,” said Lanning. Despite that, one can’t help but acknowledge that Lanning still needs his WR1 healthy soon.

As per On3’s Pete Nakos’s report, Stewart is “ahead of his schedule” and most likely won’t take the 12 months that were earlier touted for recovery. “Oregon wide receiver Evan Stewart tore his patellar tendon in June, with recovery time ranging from three to 12 months, depending on the severity of the injury. Sources have told On3 that he is ahead of schedule on his recovery timeline,” reported Pete Nakos. While that surely doesn’t mean Stewart’s presence against Indiana, it’s a major start.

Oregon so far has been exceptional in the 2025 season, defeating teams like Penn State at Beaver Stadium. Of course, the Nittany Lions’ UCLA loss took some shine off that win. But everything, right from Dante Moore to defense, is clicking exceptionally. Still, the receiving unit, which has accumulated 1,322 yards so far, can use Stewart’s ability.

Stewart came from Texas A&M in 2024 after receiving 1,163 yards in the past two seasons and didn’t take time to deliver at Oregon. Just last year, the WR received for 613 yards and was pivotal in Oregon’s undefeated season. That’s also the reason, despite his injury, he still commands a $1.7 million NIL value and is one of the top-earning players in the Big 10. As for Oregon, the team surely needs him.

For now, the team has faced just one big opponent in Penn State, and defeating Indiana, USC, and Washington ahead won’t be easy. Also, having Stewart’s presence in the postseason would boost Oregon’s chances greatly. That said, Oregon also has some other questionable players for the Indiana game, and Stewart’s return would ease some woes for Dan Lanning.

Dan Lanning issues optimistic update amid WR room injury crisis

Apart from Stewart, who has been out for some time now. Oregon’s tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Kyler Kasper are also recovering from injuries.  We saw Sadiq limping off the field after the Penn State game, signaling a leg issue. Kasper didn’t play entirely against Penn State due to an undisclosed issue. His Indiana appearance is thus questionable for now. But barring Sadiq and Kasper, Dan Lanning has provided optimistic updates about other injuries.

Daylen Austin, Oregon’s redshirt sophomore defensive back, suffered an arm injury against Penn State and was doubtful against Indiana. However, Dan Lanning has clarified on his return now. “I think he’s going to be in good shape…It’s been something that’s bothered him in a couple of games this year, but I think he’s going to be good,” said Dan Lanning. Apart from Austin, Oregon’s receiver Dillon Gresham’s recovery journey seems to be long.

Grisham, who missed the first game owing to an undisclosed injury, is still recovering and will be out for some weeks. “Dillon’s going to be down for a little bit, more precautionary, but he’s not able to go right now,” said Dan Lanning. All in all, the injuries in the wide receiver room seem concerning, and it can show against Indiana in Eugene. As for Stewart, even if he is unable to return for the 2025 season, the WR still will have the option to redshirt and return in 2026.