Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has thrown the NFL Draft for a loop with a huge decision about his future.
Moore announced in an appearance on “SportsCenter” Wednesday that he will return to Oregon for his junior season. The decision comes despite the fact that Moore had a very good chance to be a top five selection in next April’s NFL Draft.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore said he has decided to return to school for the 2026 season, forgoing a chance to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. His decision is expected to have significant ramifications on the draft. pic.twitter.com/IPQRYOSbbC
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 14, 2026
Moore is still just 20 and perhaps feels he needs a bit more seasoning before going pro. He threw for 3,565 yards with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions last season, showing flashes of brilliance mixed in with inconsistency in big moments. His draft stock will likely remain very high, and he figures to be one of the first players off the board in the 2027 draft barring something hugely unexpected.
Teams near the top of the draft will likely have to re-assess their boards now, as Moore had been widely expected to declare. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza figures to be the clear No. 1 quarterback on the board now. Moore’s decision could also prove hugely beneficial to Alabama’s Ty Simpson, who turned down huge amounts of money to go pro.
Moore’s decision also leaves Oregon in an awkward spot for 2026. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola had just transferred to the Ducks, likely with the expectation that Moore would leave for the NFL. Now Oregon might wind up having both players.
