Even though he's opted to return to school for his senior season, all eyes will be on Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert Monday at Levi's Stadium.
For 49ers and Raiders fans though, there's another Oregon Duck to keep your eyes on. Here's why both Bay Area teams should watch edge rusher Jalen Jelks on Monday in the RedBox Bowl against Michigan State.
Jalen Jelks, EDGE (Oregon)
Jelks has been used all over the defensive line at Oregon. The Ducks have lined him up at defensive end, defensive tackle and even nose tackle.
Jalen Jelks DE #97 - Lengthy, high-cut DE w/ untapped potential. Held back by Oregon using him at 4T/5 a ton, & even NT in this clip. I love his game tho. Already sitting at 20 tackles, 4 TFL & 2.5 sacks this fall.
+ physical profile, including wiry strength. Hoofs the C here: pic.twitter.com/VrQsz7rFlJ— James Thomas (@JamesThomasHT) September 20, 2018
Listed at 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds, Jelks has the frame as a natural pass rusher at the next level who has already proved he can stuff the run. The Draft Network calls him "wicked quick" and writes he "packs a lot of power."
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Defensive nightmare: @JalenJelks pic.twitter.com/LBiDtNv8b2— Alek Arend (@alekarend95) September 2, 2018
.@JalenJelks and @Tdye15dbTroy sandwich the QB to force a fumble 😳 pic.twitter.com/QMSFEAR9tb— Alek Arend (@alekarend95) September 30, 2018
With a big showing at the Pro Scouting Combine, Jelks looks like a candidate that can see his stock rise. The 49ers and Raiders need more and more pass rushers, and Jelks could be an answer as someone with tons of potential.
Here's how 49ers and Raiders fans can watch the Oregon Ducks play the Michigan State Spartans in the RedBox Bowl:
When: Monday, Dec. 31, at 12:00 p.m. PT
TV Channel: FOX Sports
Live Stream: FOX Sports Go
