Oregon Quarterback Dante Moore Returns to School for 2026 Season
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has announced that he will be returning to school for the 2026 season, forgoing a chance to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL draft. Moore made the announcement on ESPN’s “SportsCenter,” stating that he wants to do what’s best for his situation, especially as a quarterback. This decision comes after a remarkable season where he led the Oregon Ducks to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
By returning to Oregon, Moore is giving up a significant amount of guaranteed money, estimated to be nearly $50 million. Last year’s No. 2 pick, Travis Hunter, received $46.65 million fully guaranteed, and this number is expected to increase this year. Despite the financial implications, Moore feels that he can still learn and grow as a quarterback, having started only 20 games in his college career.
Moore’s Decision and Its Implications
Moore’s decision to return to school makes Oregon one of the favorites for the national title in 2026. The team has retained multiple key pieces on the defensive line and returns a strong nucleus of young wide receivers and tailbacks. The addition of ex-Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola, who announced that he would be transferring to Oregon, further strengthens the team’s lineup.
Moore’s choice to forgo the NFL draft is a rare instance of a player giving up a significant amount of guaranteed money and a top spot in the draft. Similar decisions have been made by players such as Andrew Luck (Stanford) and Matt Leinart (USC) in recent years. Moore’s decision demonstrates his commitment to his team and his desire to continue growing as a quarterback.
Moore’s Performance and Future Prospects
Moore had a breakthrough season in 2025, throwing for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns. He completed 71.8% of his passes and threw 10 interceptions. Despite a disappointing performance in the semifinal game against Indiana, where he threw a pick-six on the game’s first play and lost two fumbles, Moore remains a top prospect for the 2027 NFL draft.
Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza solidified himself as the presumed No. 1 selection in the NFL draft with a sharp performance in the semifinal win against Oregon. Moore, however, will begin the 2026 season as a top contender for the 2027 draft. His decision to return to school demonstrates his dedication to his craft and his desire to lead the Oregon Ducks to a national championship.
According to NFL executives, a quarterback’s experience and performance are crucial factors in determining their draft prospects. Moore’s decision to return to school will give him the opportunity to gain more experience and improve his skills, making him an even more attractive prospect for the 2027 draft.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Moore and the Oregon Ducks as they strive for a national championship. With Moore’s leadership and the team’s strong lineup, they are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs. Moore’s decision to return to school has significant implications for the team and his future prospects, and it will be exciting to see how the season unfolds.
