Why Byron Marshall returned to Oregon

Published Apr. 20, 2015 10:45 p.m. ET

foxsports

With running backs Royce Freeman and Thomas Tyner taking the bulk of the carries in 2014, it would have been easy for senior Byron Marshall to bolt for the NFL. After all, his smooth transition from running back to slot receiver would have made him attractive to NFL teams as an all-purpose back.

However, Marshall felt it was in his best interest to return to the Ducks and improve his game.

“I wanted to get more experience, more prepared,” Marshall said, according to Ryan Thorburn of The Register-Guard. “I felt like I could get better in every area.”

Now, as a member of Oregon's senior class, Marshall will not only be expected to be the Ducks' best wideout, but he will also be expected to lead the team back to the College Football Playoff.