Oregon State sophomore quarterback Braden Atkinson, the country's leading passer, has signed a deal to return to the Beavers for the 2027 season, sources told ESPN.
This marks the second significant re-signing for the Beavers this season. Oregon State will have two of the country's top playmakers next year with star wideout Jesse Legree also re-signed for 2027. He's the nation's leading wide receiver.
Atkinson leads the nation in passing yards (3,169) and total offense (351.3) for coach JaMarcus Shephard. Atkinson is also No. 4 in touchdown passes (25).
Atkinson is a Mercer transfer who has thrived in his first year at Oregon State, which has the country's No. 1 passing offense under coordinator Mitch Dahlen. Atkinson has thrown for more than 400 yards three different times, including 413 against Texas Tech in Week 2. He had 427 yards and five touchdown passes against Colorado State.
The early aggression on re-singing two marquee players is significant for Oregon State and will be an asset for Shephard and general manager Eron Hodges as they build out the roster for 2027. Oregon State will have two of the country's most productive playmakers, which should help lure more top talent.
Oregon State (5-4, 3-2 Pac-12), which is tied for second in the Pac-12, plays at league leader Boise State on Saturday. Boise was No. 25 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings.
Atkinson is dealing with a hand injury. Shephard said this week that "hopefully" Atkinson will play.
