FCS star Vernon Adams officially in mix to replace Marcus Mariota at Oregon

Update, Feb. 9: Vernon Adams is in fact transferring to Oregon. He tweeted out the news on Monday afternoon. Texas and UCLA were also reportedly interested in bringing him in.

The Oregon Ducks face a huge void with the departure of Marcus Mariota to the NFL, but their replacement may be visiting Eugene this weekend, according to Duck Territory. Eastern Washington star quarterback Vernon Adams is eligible to transfer and play immediately as a graduate student, and could provide a high quality bridge after Mariota's Heisman-winning campaign in 2014.

Rising junior Jeff Lockie, Mariota's seldom-used backup last season, is among the contenders for the job, as is four-star true freshman Travis Waller. The winner will start Oregon's 2015 season against Adams' former school, EWU.

Congrats @vadams_qb! Welcome to the Oregon Family. #MenOfOregon #GoDucks pic.twitter.com/hxDl2vKvgt

— OregonGridiron (@OregonGridiron) February 9, 2015

The 6', 190-pound Adams has been one of the most dynamic FCS quarterbacks in the country over the past few years, but he's also done his part to tear apart Oregon's two biggest rivals. Against Washington on Sept. 6 this past season, the Pasadena native threw for 475 yards, seven touchdowns, and zero interceptions. The Eagles fell short in that game, 59-52, but he did lead them to a victory over Oregon State in the first week of 2013, throwing for 411 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for 107 yards and two scores.

For the season in 2014, Adams completed over 66 percent of his passes for 3,483 yards, 35 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He led the Eagles to an 11-3 record and the Big Sky title before eventually losing in the FCS playoff quarterfinal to Illinois State.