Dante Moore Stays with Oregon, Skips 2026 NFL Draft After Raiola’s Move
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has officially opted to remain in college, forgoing the opportunity to enter the 2026 NFL Draft. Instead, he will return for the 2026 season with the Ducks, aiming to enhance his draft prospects.
Dante Moore’s Decision
On Wednesday, Moore announced his decision during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter. His coach, Dan Lanning, confirmed via social media that Moore still has two years of college eligibility remaining. Many believe Moore’s choice is a strategic move to improve his position for the 2027 NFL Draft.
Career Highlights
- Completed 71.8% of his passes
- Passed for 3,565 yards, with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions
- Recorded 73 carries for 156 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns
- Led the Ducks to the College Football Playoff semifinals
Moore began his collegiate career at UCLA in 2023 before transferring to Oregon. He redshirted his sophomore season in 2024, serving as a backup to Dillon Gabriel, now with the Cleveland Browns. This past season marked Moore’s first as the Ducks’ full-time starter, where he showcased impressive skills and strong performance on the field.
What’s Next for Moore and the Ducks?
Moore’s decision coincides with Nebraska transfer Dylan Raiola’s announcement to join the Ducks in 2026. Raiola may also redshirt his first season, similar to Moore’s experience. This adds a competitive layer to Oregon’s quarterback lineup.
As Moore prepares for the upcoming season, his return may impact future NFL draft prospects. Many analysts noted that his absence from the 2026 draft reshuffles quarterback rankings for teams with early picks. In a recent mock draft by Bleacher Report, Moore was projected to go second overall to the New York Jets.
With the momentum from last season’s playoff run, Moore’s focus will be on leading the Ducks to further success in the coming year.
