Oregon redshirt sophomore quarterback Dante Moore announced on Wednesday that he will return to the Ducks for the 2026 season, forgoing an early entry into the 2026 NFL Draft where he was projected as a top prospect. This decision keeps the team's key offensive player in place as they aim for another College Football Playoff run. Moore cited his desire to continue learning and contribute to the team's exciting future.
Dante Moore, ranked as the No. 2 overall prospect in CBS Sports' NFL Draft Prospect Rankings behind Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, made his announcement on the deadline for underclassmen not participating in the CFP title game. Even close associates, including Oregon coaches, were unaware of his plans until the reveal, as Moore had been undecided after a tough performance in the CFP semifinals loss to Indiana, where he threw multiple turnovers.
In his first full season as a starter, Moore threw for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns, leading Oregon to 13 wins, including CFP victories over James Madison and Texas Tech. Originally committed to Oregon in July 2022 as the No. 8 overall recruit per 247Sports, he signed with UCLA before transferring to the Ducks in December 2023. There, he backed up Dillon Gabriel last season before taking over as starter this fall.
Moore explained his choice during an ESPN interview: "At the end of the day, I feel like I can still learn so much more. And of course, as a kid ... since [I was] four years old, I've dreamed about being in the NFL, but ... this team, we've been through a lot, and a lot of people are returning, so I feel like we got exciting things coming this year, and I'm excited to keep pushing my team."
Behind the scenes, Oregon and Moore's representatives negotiated his NIL and revenue-sharing details, along with an insurance policy against potential injuries in 2026. The Ducks also secured a commitment from former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola, who could back up Moore and prepare for a starting role in 2027 under new offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer.
Raiola, the No. 7 recruit in the 2023 cycle per 247Sports, threw for 2,000 yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions in nine starts last season before an injury sidelined him. Moore welcomed the competition: "I know he's going to push me. I know we're gonna compete and have fun. I'm glad to be able to see him."
Under coach Dan Lanning, Oregon has thrived with transfer quarterbacks like Bo Nix, Gabriel, and now Moore, establishing the program as a national title contender.
