Oregon's LT World suffers torn ACL, misses NFL combine after CFP loss to Indiana

Oregon Ducks offensive tackle Isaiah World suffered a torn ACL in the College Football Playoff, impacting his NFL draft prospects.

Why it matters: World’s injury not only halts his participation in pre-draft activities but may also affect his draft stock moving forward.

• As a player who had recently transferred from Nevada, where he started all 13 games, World showcased promise during his season with Oregon.
• He finished the 2024 season with an impressive 82.3 pass-blocking grade according to Pro Football Focus, placing him just outside Mel Kiper Jr.'s latest list of top ten draft-eligible offensive tackles.

What’s new: The injury occurred during Oregon's semifinal loss to Indiana at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, a game that saw the Ducks suffer a significant defeat, 56-22.

• World missed the second half of this pivotal matchup, which could have been a platform for him to further enhance his visibility to NFL scouts and coaches.

Yes, but: While injuries are commonplace in football, a torn ACL can present a substantial setback for a young player on the verge of entering the professional ranks.

• Players often experience a lengthy recovery period, and teams will factor in the extent of an injury when assessing a player's draft potential.
• Furthermore, World will not be attending the NFL draft combine, which runs from February 23 through March 2, potentially limiting his exposure to NFL teams.

What to watch: As the draft approaches, monitor how other players' performances might influence World’s standing among left tackles.

• With nine Oregon players invited to the combine, scouts will still focus on their performances, impacting perceptions around World even while he recovers.

The bottom line: Isaiah World’s talent was evident during his brief time with the Ducks, and while his recent injury poses challenges, his previous performance suggests he remains a player to watch as he recovers and prepares for his future in the NFL.

• His size at 6-foot-8 and 318 pounds positions him favorably as an offensive lineman, but teams will undoubtedly weigh physical recovery alongside on-field potential in their evaluations.