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Dante Moore Returns to Oregon, Skips 2026 NFL Draft

The 20-year-old cited readiness after just 20 college starts, removing a top quarterback from this spring’s class and forcing draft recalculations.

Overview

  • Moore announced live on ESPN’s SportsCenter that he will play the 2026 season for the Ducks instead of entering the draft.
  • His return takes a likely top-five selection off the board, leaving Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza as the clear No. 1 quarterback and pushing the Jets at No. 2 to consider alternatives.
  • Evaluators emphasized his limited experience and noted a multi-turnover CFP semifinal as factors aligning with a development-first choice.
  • Oregon’s quarterback room now includes transfer Dylan Raiola, who is expected to back up Moore in 2026 before competing to start in 2027.
  • Reporting indicates Oregon and Moore’s camp discussed NIL/revenue-share terms and an injury insurance policy, even as he forgoes an estimated near-$50 million in 2026 rookie guarantees.