Purdue standout safety Dillon Thieneman will remain in the Big Ten, but is headed 2,000 miles west.
The former Westfield star entered the transfer portal after Purdue fired Ryan Walters and announced Saturday he’s transferring to Oregon.
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Barry Odom said his primary goal was to retain as much of Purdue’s talent as possible. And while Thieneman had said he’d keep open the option of returning to West Lafayette after a new coach was hired, he’s headed to play for the nation’s No. 1 team instead.
He was a freshman All-American in 2023, Walters’ first season. His six interceptions were tied for third in the nation. While he did not have any interceptions in the recently completed season, he led Purdue in tackles for the second straight season with 104 with six pass breakups and one sack.
IndyStar Purdue Insider Nathan Baird contributed to this story.
