Bailey Ettridge emerges as favorite for Oregon punting job
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 11:01 AM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Bailey Ettridge, a 28-year-old transfer punter, is favored to secure the starting job at Oregon. Less than two years ago, he transitioned from a construction career in Australia to American football, after auditioning for Prokick Australia. In his first college season at Nevada, Ettridge averaged 44.7 yards per punt and quickly attracted interest from Oregon. Special teams coach Joe Lorig notes that Ettridge's experience and maturity are significant advantages in the competition against younger players. As fall camp approaches, Ettridge aims to solidify his place and may pursue an NFL career thereafter.
- •Ettridge ranked in the top 30 nationally among punters with at least 45 punts last season.
- •He began his football journey with Australian rules football and construction work.
- •Oregon's special teams coach emphasizes Ettridge's skill set and maturity.
- •Ettridge is competing against freshmen Michael Sbuttoni and Jack Nicoli.
- •He hopes to pursue an NFL or CFL career after college.
- 11:01 AMYahoo Sports — How 28-year-old former welder became favorite for Oregon punting job
"A year ago, Bailey Ettridge had never played in a college football game. Now he's the favorite to start for the Ducks.
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