What's Happening?
Dante Moore, the quarterback for the Oregon Ducks, has announced his decision to remain in college for another year, foregoing the opportunity to enter the 2026 NFL Draft. Moore, who was projected to be one of the top picks, made this announcement on ESPN's SportCenter. The decision comes on the final day that underclassmen not participating in the College Football Playoff championship game can declare for the draft. Moore, a 6-foot-3, 206-pound redshirt sophomore, was ranked among the top overall draft prospects and was the second quarterback behind Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. Despite his high ranking, Moore expressed a desire to continue developing his skills and contribute to his college team, which he believes has exciting prospects for the upcoming
season. During the 2025 season, Moore completed 71.8% of his passes for 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, while also rushing for 156 yards and two touchdowns.
Why It's Important?
Moore's decision to stay at Oregon has significant implications for both his future and the college football landscape. By delaying his entry into the NFL Draft, Moore aims to further hone his skills and potentially increase his draft stock for 2027. This move also impacts the Oregon Ducks, as Moore's return bolsters their chances for a successful season, given his proven track record and leadership on the field. Additionally, Moore's decision affects the dynamics of the 2026 NFL Draft, as teams that might have been interested in drafting him will need to adjust their strategies. His choice highlights the growing trend of college athletes opting to stay in school longer to develop their skills and improve their professional prospects.
What's Next?
With Moore's return, the Oregon Ducks are poised to build on their recent successes under coach Dan Lanning. The team will likely focus on leveraging Moore's experience and leadership to aim for a strong performance in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola, who announced his transfer to Oregon, may redshirt, allowing him to develop further under Moore's mentorship. For NFL teams, Moore's decision means they will need to look elsewhere for quarterback prospects in the 2026 draft, potentially shifting their focus to other top-ranked players like Indiana's Fernando Mendoza.
