20 July, 2025
oregon-ducks-honor-fallen-teammates-with-emotional-hike

The Oregon Ducks football team commemorated the memories of two fallen teammates, tight end Spencer Webb and cornerback Khyree Jackson, through an emotional hike to Spencer Butte. This annual tradition, now in its third year, symbolizes the conclusion of the summer offseason under head coach Dan Lanning. The hike covers a 1.7-mile uphill path to the peak, which stands 2,000 feet high, offering a panoramic view of Autzen Stadium.

The selection of Spencer Butte as the destination holds particular significance. Webb tragically passed away in a cliff diving accident at Triangle Lake on July 13, 2022. Two years later, on July 6, 2024, Jackson was killed by a drunk driver. During the hike, Lanning addressed the team, emphasizing the importance of remembering their fallen brothers and the impact they had on the Oregon Ducks community.

“So look, we do this every single year,” Lanning stated at the summit. “Some of you guys know, some of you don’t know, why we do that. We have a fallen brother. Spencer Webb. We have another fallen brother, Khyree Jackson, that don’t get to sit where you’re sitting right now.” He continued, “Part of this is remembrance for those guys who were a part of our team. Once you’re part of our team, you’re forever a part of our team.”

The hike not only serves as a tribute but also marks the end of summer training. Lanning encouraged the players to reflect on their accomplishments during the summer workouts while recognizing the challenges that lie ahead. “You should have a sense of accomplishment. But you’ve also got to realize there’s more on that plate to eat and you want to finish the plate,” he said.

As the team ascended the butte, players such as wide receiver Jurrion Dickey, linebacker Bryce Boettcher, and freshman quarterback Akili Smith Jr. took a moment to appreciate the views and the significance of the occasion. Notably, there are currently no active Ducks who played alongside Webb or Jackson, as the last tight ends to play with Webb graduated last year.

While many current team members may not have directly known Webb and Jackson, their legacies continue to resonate. Former Ducks, including Traeshon Holden, who now plays for the Dallas Cowboys, expressed their grief over Jackson’s recent passing. On social media platform X, Holden wrote, “1 year without you 5 I miss you so much.”

In honor of Jackson, his family established the Khyree Jackson Foundation, which is now offering a $1,000 scholarship to a senior student from Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, his alma mater, who plans to attend a four-year or junior college. Webb’s brother, Cody Webb, also keeps his memory alive by organizing a football camp in July at Christian Brothers High School, his brother’s former school.

“You’re kind of reliving what his dreams were kind of outside of football,” Cody Webb explained to FOX 40 in Sacramento. “To help kids and things of that sort. So, to kinda keep that torch going on his behalf is a bit emotional, but it’s in a positive way.”

This annual hike not only honors the memories of Spencer Webb and Khyree Jackson but also reinforces the bond among the Oregon Ducks, reminding them of their shared history and the values that unite them as a team. As the Ducks look forward to the upcoming season, the legacy of their fallen teammates continues to inspire.