Chemistry Test

Charles Nelson has already proven himself on offense and special teams at Oregon.

Now he will see what he can do for the Ducks on defense.

The big story at the beginning of spring practice for Oregon has been Nelsons move to cornerback after compiling 428 yards and five touchdowns on offense last year as a true freshman. Nelson, who spent a small amount of time working on defense during practice last season in case he was needed as an emergency replacement, was asked by coach Mark Helfrich after Oregons loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff National Championship game about making the switch this spring.

I was OK with it, Nelson said after Oregons second spring practice Wednesday. Im willing to help the team wherever needed. The coaches felt like this was a better move for me in the future and things like that, so I went ahead and told them Im OK with it.

Nelson had 23 catches for 327 yards and five touchdowns last season and ran 11 times for 101 yards. He was named Oregons special teams player of the week three times.

Charles is one of the better football players Ive been around, Oregon offensive coordinator Scott Frost said. He came in and it took him a while to learn it, but once he did he was impressive not just catching the football, but running with it and blocking and playing defense. I have no doubt Charles will be great wherever we have him.

The 5-foot-8, 170-pound Nelson said this spring will serve as a tryout with the defense.

Right now its just an experiment during the spring, he said. If everything is going well, I will stay there. If Im not getting it and nothing is really happening, they said I can always go back to offense.

Wide receivers coach Matt Lubick also referred to the spring as an experiment for Nelson.

Charles has proven hes a good offensive player, but we have a little more depth at receiver and were developing depth in the secondary, Lubick said. If he goes over there and he can help our team, then thats the best decision.

Link:
Chemistry Test