The first day of September signifies the start of the school year, the beginning of fall, pumpkin spice everything, and, of course, football.
For hundreds of NFL hopefuls it also signifies either the realization of a lifelong dream to make an NFL roster, or the crushing defeat of being unemployed with limited other options thanks to the lack of a minor league system.
Today, 24 former Oregon Ducks are in the first camp, surviving the final round of roster cuts and getting set to begin the 2021 campaign on an NFL roster.
Of course, a lot can and will change as waivers are placed, practice squads are established, and the looming presence of Covid-19 potentially creates additional openings for currently unsigned players to find homes in short order.
Quarterback Justin Herbert will draw the most attention, but defensive end DeForest Buckner is among the best players in the league right now, and newcomer Penei Sewell has a chance to prove himself as an elite offensive lineman with the Detroit Lions as a rookie this year.
For now, here is a look at the 24 Ducks who are on rosters heading into the first weekend of the season:
(Edit: As practice squads get finalized, we will add any Oregon players to this sheet as well)