Browns QB Shedeur Sanders Affected by Dante Moore’s 2026 College Return
Dante Moore’s decision to return to Oregon has significant implications for the upcoming NFL Draft, particularly for Shedeur Sanders. Moore, who would have been a highly coveted quarterback prospect, is now set to strengthen the 2027 class, potentially affecting Sanders’ chances to start for the Cleveland Browns in 2026.
Dante Moore’s Impact on the NFL Draft
On Wednesday, Dante Moore, a college quarterback, announced he would return to the University of Oregon. This choice was anticipated in football circles and shifts the landscape for upcoming drafts. Moore had the potential to be a top-three NFL Draft pick but opted to further his college career after a challenging performance in the College Football Playoff semifinals.
The Current Quarterback Landscape
With Moore returning, the current quarterback prospects entering the draft have been reduced significantly. Key players still available include:
- Fernando Mendoza – Indiana
- Ty Simpson – Alabama
Mendoza is projected to be the first overall pick for the Las Vegas Raiders. The New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals, holding the next two picks, are also looking for quarterbacks, further complicating the Browns’ search.
Shedeur Sanders’ Future
With fewer elite quarterbacks available, Shedeur Sanders’ chances of becoming the Browns’ starter in 2026 have improved. However, much will hinge on the new head coach’s decisions and strategies. General Manager Andrew Berry emphasized that assessing the quarterback position is a lengthy process that requires collaboration with the new coaching staff.
2027 Quarterback Class and Its Implications
Moore’s return positions him within a strong 2027 quarterback class, which includes notable talents like Arch Manning from Texas and LaNorris Sellers from South Carolina. The depth of the class could shape future drafts and trading strategies for teams seeking quarterbacks.
Assessment of Current Talent
Last year, the perception of Sanders’ draft position was significantly different. He eventually fell to the fifth round after expectations placed him as a top-two pick. As Berry indicated, the evaluation of quarterback talent can be unpredictable.
For the Browns, the starting lineup in 2026 could include a healthy Deshaun Watson, adding another layer of complexity to Sanders’ situation. Berry remarked on Sanders’ growth this past year, highlighting his mental and physical development, as well as improvements in playmaking and accuracy.
Future Possibilities for the Browns
As the Browns prepare for the draft, they are meticulously analyzing both internal and external options for the quarterback position. Potential veterans include:
- Mac Jones
- Malik Willis
The Browns may select a quarterback with their sixth overall pick or potentially trade to acquire more valuable picks for a stronger 2027 quarterback draft. This ongoing evaluation of talent and strategy is crucial for achieving sustained success.
Dante Moore’s decision to continue his collegiate journey, despite the financial sacrifices, reveals his commitment to improvement. He completed 71.8% of his passes last season, totaling 3,565 yards, with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His pursuit of a national championship with the Ducks highlights both his ambition and the competitive nature of upcoming college football seasons.
