Oregon Football: Defensive Lineman Rutger Reitmaier Transferring From Ducks

TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 14: Willie Taggart, head coach for South Florida argues a call with officials in the second quarter against Temple Owls at Raymond James Stadium in the first half on November 14, 2015 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Cliff McBride/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 14: Willie Taggart, head coach for South Florida argues a call with officials in the second quarter against Temple Owls at Raymond James Stadium in the first half on November 14, 2015 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Cliff McBride/Getty Images) /
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It has been a rough week for Oregon Football. Over the weekend Rutger Reitmaier announced he was leaving the Ducks to be closer to home.

The Army All American played in one Spring Practice for Oregon Football and was expected to solidify the Defensive Line for Willie Taggart in 2017, but now the program will look for the next man up. Reitmaier was among the first commitments for Taggart and was expected to play, likely in a reserve role for the upcoming season.

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While losing him won’t be a giant loss, the experience he would have picked up his Freshman season could have easily made him a Starter in future seasons. The reason for the departures one that is always difficult for some fans to understand. It was not injury, but a more personal reason.

Rutger Reitmaier simply wants to be and play closer to home, which I understand. Some would ask if this was the outcome, why did he leave his home state in the first place?

He first committed to Brady Hoke back in 2016 and held out during the coaching transition between Mark Helfrich and Willie Taggart. He recommitted to the Oregon Football program on February 1st, went through Spring Camp and even played in the Spring Game.

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The Tennessee Native will have to sit out a season before taking a Defensive snap at his next destination. Whatever the reason we should with this young man well. He is talented. It is unfortunate that he will not have the chance to show it on the field with Oregon.