Jabbar Muhammad Oregon CB: Impressive Performance in Spring Practice Session

Jabbar Muhammad has emerged as one of the most impressive cornerbacks in college football. The Oregon Ducks defensive back transferred from Oklahoma State and immediately made his presence felt in Eugene.

Muhammad showcased the versatility and playmaking ability that NFL scouts covet in a defensive back. During his time at Washington, he had 46 total tackles, three interceptions, 5.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, and 19 passes defended.

The journey for Muhammad hasn’t always been straightforward. Born December 28, 2001, the talented cornerback has played for multiple programs, honing his skills at both Oklahoma State and Oregon.

His combination of speed – reaching recorded speeds of 20.0 mph – and technical skills has elevated him in draft conversations despite being projected as a late-round selection. Currently ranked #231 overall and #43 at his position according to draft analysts, Muhammad’s consistent performance across 59 college games suggests he might outperform those projections at the next level.

Early Life and High School Career

Jabbar Muhammad’s journey to becoming a standout cornerback began in DeSoto, Texas, where he developed his defensive skills and athletic prowess that would later serve him well at the collegiate level.

High School Achievements

Jabbar Muhammad emerged as a defensive talent at DeSoto High School in Texas, where he honed his skills as a cornerback. Despite being ranked as the No. 1,043 recruit in his class, Muhammad’s on-field performance spoke volumes about his potential.

The Texas native was rated as a three-star prospect in the 2020 recruiting class, showing promise that would eventually translate to the college level. His technical skills and football IQ stood out during his high school career, even if the recruiting rankings didn’t place him among the elite prospects.

Muhammad comes from a football family, with his brother EJ Muhammad playing cornerback at Nevada. This family connection to the sport likely contributed to his development and understanding of defensive backfield play.

His high school performance laid the groundwork for what would become a solid collegiate career first at Oklahoma State and later at Oregon.

College Career at Oregon

Jabbar Muhammad’s journey with the Oregon Ducks transformed him into one of the premier cornerbacks in college football. His combination of technical skill, football IQ, and athletic ability made him a standout performer in the defensive backfield.

Freshman Season Highlights

After transferring from Oklahoma State, Muhammad made an immediate impact at Oregon, starting all 14 games at cornerback. His transition to the Ducks’ defense appeared seamless as he quickly established himself as a reliable defender in the secondary.

Muhammad registered 41 total tackles during his first season in Eugene. His coverage skills proved exceptional, as he consistently matched up against opponents’ top receivers.

What impressed coaches most was Muhammad’s football intelligence. He rarely found himself out of position and demonstrated excellent technique in press coverage situations.

Muhammad’s ball skills also stood out, with multiple pass breakups that prevented critical completions. His performance earned him all-Big Ten second-team honors from the media, validating his decision to transfer to Oregon.

Sophomore Year Development

Muhammad’s sophomore campaign with the Ducks showed significant development in his overall game. Building on his strong freshman foundation, he refined his technique and expanded his role in Oregon’s defensive schemes.

The cornerback improved his tackling efficiency, showing better form and more confidence when bringing down ball carriers in open space. His understanding of Oregon’s defensive principles deepened, allowing coaches to utilize him in more complex coverage assignments.

Muhammad’s reputation as a shutdown corner began to solidify during this season. Opposing quarterbacks increasingly avoided throwing to his side of the field, a testament to his coverage abilities.

His film study habits earned praise from the coaching staff, as Muhammad consistently identified offensive tendencies pre-snap and communicated adjustments to teammates.

Sophomore Stats	Total
Games Started	13
Tackles	53
Interceptions	2
Pass Breakups	9
Forced Fumbles	1

Junior Year Performance

Muhammad’s junior season showcased his emergence as an elite Pac-12 defender. His technical refinement and physical development reached new heights, making him one of the conference’s most respected cornerbacks.

NFL scouts began taking serious notice of Muhammad during this campaign. His fluid hip movement, excellent recovery speed, and increasingly physical play style checked multiple boxes for professional evaluators.

Muhammad’s ball production increased significantly, with more interceptions and pass breakups than his previous seasons combined. He demonstrated exceptional timing when making plays on the ball, rarely drawing pass interference penalties despite his aggressive style.

Against top competition, Muhammad consistently rose to the occasion. In matchups against future NFL receivers, he limited their production and forced opposing offenses to adjust their game plans.

His leadership qualities emerged prominently, as younger defensive backs frequently sought his guidance on technique and film study approaches.

Senior Season Recap

Muhammad’s senior year cemented his legacy as one of Oregon’s finest defensive backs. Operating as the defense’s cornerstone, he displayed the complete skill set of an NFL-ready cornerback.

His statistical production reached career-high levels across multiple categories. Muhammad’s tackling technique in open space became nearly flawless, rarely missing opportunities to bring down ball carriers.

NFL draft analysts consistently ranked Muhammad among the top cornerback prospects, with most projections placing him as a second-round selection. His combination of experience, technique, and measurables made him particularly attractive to teams employing heavy man-coverage schemes.

What separated Muhammad from other prospects was his football intelligence. Pre-snap adjustments, route recognition, and situational awareness all demonstrated a player who processed the game at an advanced level.

Muhammad’s leadership during Oregon’s conference championship run proved invaluable, as he mentored younger players while maintaining elite performance standards for himself.

Positional Analysis

Jabbar Muhammad’s cornerback skills set him apart as a compelling NFL prospect. His technical abilities, combined with a clear understanding of his role in Oregon’s defense, show a player prepared for the next level.

Technique and Skills

Muhammad is a feisty, sticky cover corner who excels through superior technique and high football IQ. Despite standing just 5-10 and weighing 183 pounds, his technical proficiency compensates for size limitations.

His footwork remains fluid in both press and off coverage. Muhammad rarely crosses his feet unnecessarily, maintaining proper leverage against receivers.

Ball skills stand out as a particular strength. He’s produced impressive ball production throughout his college career, showcasing his ability to make plays when targeted.

Muhammad’s man coverage skills rate at 83% according to draft evaluations, significantly higher than his zone coverage grade (74%).

Coverage Type	Rating	Rank Among CBs
Man/Press	83%	Top 15
Zone	74%	Middle tier

Cornerback Role and Responsibilities

As a cornerback, Muhammad embraces the full spectrum of position responsibilities. He’s gritty and playmaking, fighting through the entire play regardless of assignment.

What separates him from peers is his physicality. Despite his undersized frame, Muhammad shows remarkable willingness to engage in contact situations. He doesn’t shy away from run support.

This physicality extends to press coverage, where he disrupts timing between quarterbacks and receivers. His instincts allow him to read routes quickly and jump passing lanes.

Currently projected as a 7th round selection with an overall rank of #231 and position rank of #43, Muhammad offers value for NFL teams seeking cornerback depth with starting potential.

His experience as a track athlete in high school translates to football through excellent closing speed and recovery ability when initially beaten.

Statistical Overview

Jabbar Muhammad’s performance metrics reveal an elite defensive back with consistent production across multiple programs. His numbers highlight a cornerback who excels in pass coverage while also contributing significantly in run support.

Career Stats

Muhammad’s collegiate journey spans three programs, with impressive stats at each stop. At Oklahoma State, he built his foundation before transferring to Washington where he started all 15 games in 2023. With the Huskies, he recorded 46 total tackles, 3 interceptions, and an outstanding 19 passes defended.

In 2024 with Oregon, Muhammad has continued his disruptive play. Through the current season, he’s tallied 22 solo tackles and 12 pass deflections. His career numbers put him among the top defensive backs in college football.

Season	School	Games	Solo Tackles	Total Tackles	INTs	PD	TFL	Sacks
2023	Washington	15	–	46	3	19	5.0	2.0
2024	Oregon	–	22	–	0	12	–	–

Key Game Performances

Muhammad’s ability to impact games stands out in several notable performances. His technical coverage skills and physical play make him a difference-maker in crucial matchups. NFL scouts have taken notice, with Muhammad ranked 5th among cornerbacks in his draft class.

At Washington, his three-interception season included game-changing plays that helped propel the Huskies to the College Football Playoff. His ability to both defend passes and contribute in run support makes him a versatile defender.

At 5’10” and 185 pounds, Muhammad compensates for a slightly smaller frame with elite technique and competitive fire. His 4.47 forty time demonstrates sufficient speed for the position, and his 19 passes defended in 2023 showcases his ball skills.

Awards and Recognitions

Jabbar Muhammad has built an impressive collection of honors during his collegiate career, standing out for his exceptional cornerback play and defensive prowess. His recognition spans both conference and national levels, highlighting his impact on the field.

All-PAC-12 Honors

Muhammad earned significant recognition within the conference circuit during his time at Oregon. The media named him to the all-Big Ten second-team after he started all 14 games at cornerback for the Ducks. This recognition came during his lone season with Oregon after transferring.

Before joining the Ducks, Muhammad made his mark at Washington. There, he was named Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week following an outstanding performance against No. 10 Oregon State. In that game, he recorded two interceptions, showcasing his ball-hawking abilities.

His conference honors reflect his consistent on-field production, including 41 total tackles during his season with Oregon.

National Recognitions

On the national stage, Muhammad’s play earned him the prestigious Bednarik Award Player of the Week honor during his time at Washington. This award celebrates the top defensive performance in college football each week.

Muhammad’s draft stock has climbed thanks to his consistent play. Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, he’s positioned as the 43rd ranked prospect with a player rating of 78.0. He impressed scouts at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine with his technical skills and football IQ.

Draft analysts praise Muhammad for how his “technique and instinctive play can compensate for physical limitations,” making him an intriguing cornerback prospect despite not having elite measurables. His 4.47 forty time and 71 play recognition rating demonstrate his solid athletic foundation.

Professional Prospects

Jabbar Muhammad has positioned himself as an intriguing NFL cornerback prospect despite size limitations. His technique, instincts, and versatility have caught scouts’ attention heading into the 2025 draft cycle.

NFL Draft Potential

Muhammad currently projects as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Rated at 78.0 by NFL Draft Buzz, he ranks as the #43 overall prospect. His draft stock benefits from his versatility – teams value his ability to play both outside corner and in the slot depending on defensive packages.

What stands out most about Muhammad is how he’s transformed perceived weaknesses into strengths. At 5’10” and under 190 pounds, he’s not the prototype NFL corner, but his quick-twitch athleticism and aggressive play style compensate effectively.

Teams like the Chiefs have shown interest, noting his ability to maximize leverage against receivers and squeeze throwing lanes – skills that translate well to the next level.

Pre-Draft Activities

Muhammad has been making the rounds at team facilities, with scheduled visits to several NFL franchises looking for secondary help. His interview process has impressed teams with his football IQ and film study habits.

At the Senior Bowl, Muhammad stood out in one-on-one drills against top receiver prospects. His competitive nature showed through as he battled larger receivers at the catch point. Scouts particularly noted his press technique and route recognition during practice sessions.

Pre-Draft Event	Performance Notes
Senior Bowl	Standout in 1-on-1 drills, showed press technique
Combine Interviews	Impressed with football IQ and film study
Team Visits	7 scheduled (Chiefs, Eagles, Ravens among them)

Muhammad’s draft profile highlights his scrappy style and ball production, attributes that have been reinforced during the pre-draft process.

Pro Day Performance

Muhammad solidified his draft standing with an impressive showing at Oregon’s Pro Day. His 4.47 forty time matched his Combine performance, but he improved his short shuttle and three-cone drill times, showcasing the quickness that makes him effective in coverage.

The cornerback posted 15 reps on the bench press – respectable for his position and size. More importantly, he looked fluid in positional drills, displaying the hip flexibility and change-of-direction ability that NFL teams covet.

Several defensive backs coaches attended specifically to work with Muhammad, putting him through additional drills that tested his backpedal, transition, and ball skills. He showed natural hands when playing the ball and the ability to flip his hips without losing speed.

Muhammad’s metrics on his performance profile earned him an 87.3 IGA Score, indicating strong potential for NFL success compared to historical defensive back performances.

Extracurricular Involvement

Beyond the football field, Jabbar Muhammad has built a reputation at Oregon for his commitment to both community service and campus activities. His involvement shows a well-rounded character that NFL scouts often consider when evaluating prospects.

Community Service

Muhammad has become a familiar face at local Eugene elementary schools, participating in the Ducks’ reading program that connects athletes with young students. He dedicates 3-5 hours weekly during the off-season visiting classrooms and encouraging literacy.

The cornerback organized a football skills camp for underprivileged youth in summer 2024, drawing over 150 participants. This initiative received praise from Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning.

Muhammad also volunteers with Food for Lane County, the regional food bank serving Eugene and surrounding communities. He’s often brought teammates along, helping to strengthen the connection between the football program and local hunger relief efforts.

University Activities

As a transfer student, Muhammad quickly integrated into campus life by joining the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. This organization gives athletes a voice in university policies and community outreach planning.

He’s participated in several university panels discussing the transition between schools for transfer athletes. These sessions provide valuable insight for incoming transfers adapting to Oregon’s academic and athletic environment.

Muhammad frequently attends other Oregon sporting events, showing support for Oregon Baseball and Beach Volleyball matches. His presence at these events highlights the camaraderie among Oregon’s athletic programs.

He’s also collaborated with the university’s media department to create content highlighting student-athlete experiences, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to balance academics and Division I athletics.

Coaching and Influences

Jabbar Muhammad’s development as a cornerback has been significantly shaped by the coaching staff at Oregon. His growth under this system has transformed him into one of the most promising defensive backs in college football.

Mentorship by Dan Lanning

Dan Lanning’s impact on Muhammad cannot be overstated. As a former assistant under defensive masterminds Nick Saban and Kirby Smart, Lanning has brought an intensity to Oregon’s practices that mirrors the SEC powerhouses where he cut his teeth. During the 2024 fall camp, Muhammad specifically highlighted this intensity, noting the challenging nature of their training sessions.

The cornerback’s technique has flourished under Lanning’s guidance. Muhammad’s ability to use leverage against receivers—forcing them into help coverage and squeezing throwing lanes—bears the hallmark of Lanning’s defensive philosophy.

After transferring from Washington, Muhammad chose Oregon over Texas and Alabama, a testament to his belief in Lanning’s system. This decision has paid dividends for both parties as Muhammad earned All-Big Ten honors in the 2024 season.

Defensive Strategy

In Oregon’s defensive scheme, Muhammad has emerged as a cornerback who quarterbacks think twice about challenging. His role in the secondary is characterized by his aggressive play style that balances risk and reward effectively.

Despite being considered an undersized cornerback, Muhammad has developed techniques to overcome physical limitations. His scrappy play and ball production make him particularly valuable in Oregon’s defensive system.

Muhammad’s 2024 Stats in Coverage:

Statistic	Value	Rank (NCAA)
Passes Defended	14	Top 15
Completion % Allowed	48.2%	Top 20
Forced Incompletions	11	Top 25

Muhammad’s draft stock has risen significantly under Oregon’s coaching. NFL scouts consistently note how the defensive strategy has maximized his strengths while developing his football IQ—a critical factor as he projects as a mid-round selection in the upcoming NFL draft.

Legal Issues and Advocacy

Jabbar Muhammad’s collegiate career has included moments of advocacy that extend beyond his performance on the football field. His stance on player rights and involvement in legal matters has shown another dimension to his character as an athlete.

Involvement in Title IX Lawsuit

Muhammad’s name appeared in connection with a Title IX lawsuit while at Oklahoma State, though he was not a defendant in the case. The lawsuit involved allegations against the athletic department, where Muhammad served as a witness providing testimony about program protocols.

After transferring to Washington and then to Oregon, Muhammad became an outspoken advocate for athlete rights. He participated in several player-led initiatives aimed at improving Title IX compliance across collegiate athletics.

“Athletes deserve proper protections,” Muhammad stated during a student-athlete forum in 2024.

His advocacy work didn’t interfere with his on-field responsibilities. In fact, coaches have praised his ability to balance these commitments while maintaining his status as a scrappy, productive cornerback.

Team Dynamics and Leadership

Muhammad’s impact on the Oregon Ducks extends far beyond his impressive stats on the field. His presence has shaped team chemistry and established him as a key voice in the locker room during a transitional period for the program.

Team Chemistry

During the 2023 season, Muhammad quickly became a cornerstone of Oregon’s secondary after transferring from Washington. His seamless integration was remarkable for a newcomer, starting all 15 games for the Huskies before joining the Ducks.

In the offseason leading to the 2024 campaign, Muhammad emerged as the veteran presence Oregon’s secondary needed. His experience proved vital as the Ducks navigated their transition to the Big Ten conference.

teammates frequently cite Muhammad’s positive energy and communication skills as catalysts for the secondary’s cohesion. His ability to connect with both veterans and younger players helped maintain stability during scheme adjustments.

The cornerback’s consistent performance set a standard that elevated those around him. This was particularly evident during Oregon’s preparation for their College Football Playoff appearance.

Leadership Role

Muhammad’s leadership style combines vocal guidance with consistent example-setting. During media appearances, he’s demonstrated remarkable poise and accountability when discussing team challenges.

The 2024 season saw Muhammad take ownership of critical defensive situations. His calm demeanor during high-pressure moments helped steady the Ducks’ secondary against elite competition.

Oregon’s coaching staff regularly delegated additional responsibilities to Muhammad, including mentoring younger cornerbacks and providing input on defensive schemes. This trust speaks volumes about his football IQ and character.

As Muhammad prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft, his second-team All-Big Ten selection underscores how his leadership qualities complement his on-field abilities—a combination NFL scouts prize highly in defensive backs.

Performance Metrics

Jabbar Muhammad’s metrics tell the story of a cornerback who brings both technique and athleticism to the field. His measurements and testing numbers provide NFL scouts with valuable data points that complement his impressive on-field production.

Physical Attributes

Muhammad stands at just 5-9.13 feet tall, which places him on the shorter side for NFL cornerbacks. Despite his height limitations, he compensates with solid overall athleticism and technique.

The Oregon cornerback weighs in at 182 pounds, giving him a compact frame that allows for quick changes of direction.

His arm length measures 28.63 inches with a wingspan of 71.38 inches, numbers that fall below average for his position. While these measurements might concern some NFL evaluators, Muhammad has consistently shown the ability to make plays on the ball despite these physical limitations.

Muhammad’s game speed has been clocked at an impressive 20.0 mph during game action, showing his functional athleticism translates well to real game situations.

Combine Results

Muhammad posted a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at his Pro Day, placing him in the 61st percentile among cornerbacks. This time demonstrates good but not elite straight-line speed.

His shuttle time of 4.19 seconds ranks in the 44th percentile, showing average short-area quickness.

The most concerning testing number is Muhammad’s 29.5-inch vertical jump, which ranks in just the 1st percentile for the position. This low vertical jump score could raise questions about his ability to contest catches against taller NFL receivers.

Muhammad recorded a 7.01-second three-cone drill (36th percentile), further indicating solid but not exceptional change-of-direction abilities.

His testing numbers have contributed to his NFL draft position ranking of 5th among cornerbacks in the 2025 class and 47th overall among all positions.

Post-College Prospects

Jabbar Muhammad’s journey beyond Oregon showcases potential for NFL success despite some physical limitations. His versatility and football IQ position him as an intriguing cornerback prospect for professional teams.

Graduation and Future Plans

Muhammad’s senior season at Oregon solidified his reputation as a quick-twitch cornerback with dual-threat capability. Graduating with impressive defensive credentials, he’s now laser-focused on NFL aspirations.

His post-college plan centers on leveraging his demonstrated versatility. Teams have taken notice of his ability to play both outside cornerback and nickel positions, giving him multiple pathways at the professional level.

Muhammad’s intelligence stands out in his preparation. He’s been meticulous about studying film and understanding offensive schemes – skills that translate well beyond college football.

Scouts particularly praise his aggressive mindset and football IQ, which compensate for his less imposing physical stature.

Transition to Professional Football

Muhammad’s NFL Draft outlook seems promising, but he also faces challenges. Multiple scouting reports suggest he projects best as a nickel corner at the pro level, which could minimize concerns about his size.

Draft Projection & Measurables

Metric	Value	Draft Impact
Current Draft Position	Mid-Round (4-5)	Solid value pick
Top Speed	20.0 mph	Above average
IGA Score	87.3	Above NFL average
Best Position Fit	Nickel Corner	Scheme dependent

His transition benefits from facing elite competition in the Pac-12. Muhammad has shown particular effectiveness in zone coverage schemes, where his football intelligence shines brightest.

Teams with press-heavy schemes may value his aggressive playing style. However, his ultimate draft position will depend on combine performance and team interviews.