What's Happening?
Dante Moore, a former UCLA quarterback, has become a prominent figure in college football following his transfer to Oregon. After a challenging freshman year at UCLA, Moore spent a year on the sidelines at Oregon, learning under Dillon Gabriel. Now, as Oregon's starting quarterback, Moore has shown remarkable improvement, completing 77.3% of his passes for 479 yards and six touchdowns in just two games. His performance has generated significant interest among NFL analysts, with some predicting he could be a top 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Despite this, Pro Football Focus has yet to rank him on its 2026 Big Board, highlighting the varied opinions on his potential.
Why It's Important?
Moore's rapid development is significant for both Oregon and the broader college football landscape. His success could enhance Oregon's reputation as a program that effectively develops quarterback talent, following the footsteps of previous successful transfers like Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel. For the NFL, Moore represents a potential high-value draft pick, which could impact team strategies and draft decisions. His performance may also influence other college players considering transfers, showcasing the benefits of patience and development in a new environment.
What's Next?
If Moore continues to perform at this level, he is likely to climb draft boards and become a key figure in discussions around the 2026 NFL Draft. His sustained success could lead to a decision to enter the draft after the 2025 season, potentially making him a contender for the Heisman Trophy. Oregon will likely continue to leverage Moore's talents to pursue further success in the Big Ten, while NFL scouts will closely monitor his progress.