Oregon’s redshirt sophomore quarterback Dante Moore made headlines on Wednesday by confirming his return to the Ducks for the 2026 season. This decision comes as he chooses to bypass an early-entry opportunity in a year where he’s projected to be one of the top prospects in the NFL Draft.
With Moore’s return, the Ducks retain their most valuable offensive player and maintain ambitions for a third straight trip to the College Football Playoff under coach Dan Lanning. Moore’s last outing, however, was less than stellar, marked by multiple turnovers in a loss to Indiana during the CFP semifinals. Fortunately, he now has the chance to amend that performance as he leads the Ducks forward.
“At the end of the day, I feel like I can still learn so much more,” Moore expressed in an ESPN interview. “Since I was four years old, I’ve dreamed about playing in the NFL, but this team has been through a lot together. Many familiar faces are returning, so I believe exciting things are ahead this season, and I’m eager to keep pushing my team.”
According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, negotiations regarding Moore’s NIL and revenue-sharing opportunities have been ongoing, as well as discussions about an insurance policy for potential injuries in the upcoming season.
Wednesday marked the final day for underclassmen not participating in the CFP title game to declare for the NFL Draft. Even in the hours leading up to his announcement, Moore had not revealed his plans to those close to him, including the coaching staff at Oregon. Despite being seen as a likely top pick, his decision remained uncertain post-Indy loss, making it clear he intended to have discussions with Coach Lanning and his family before reaching a conclusion.
In CBS Sports’ NFL Draft Prospect Rankings, Moore is graded as the No. 2 overall prospect and the second-best quarterback behind Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. Moore’s performance has been impressive, throwing for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns in his first full season as a starter. Rumors suggest he could potentially land with the New York Jets in the latest mock draft.
Moore had initially committed to the Ducks and Coach Lanning in July 2022, rated as the No. 8 overall player in the 2023 recruiting cycle per 247Sports. He later signed with UCLA but transferred to Oregon in December 2023 after an inconsistent freshman season, eventually earning the starting role this fall and guiding the Ducks to 13 victories, including playoff wins against both James Madison and Texas Tech.
Oregon QB room set with Dante Moore, Dylan Raiola
As Moore contemplated his future, Oregon successfully secured a commitment from former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola. Raiola has the potential to follow in Moore’s footsteps, allowing him to understand the offensive scheme under new coordinator Drew Mehringer, who has recently stepped up from tight ends coach, and could take over as a starter in 2027.
Oregon’s coaching staff is accustomed to integrating transfer quarterbacks, which has significantly contributed to elevating the program to elite status as a consistent national title contender. Raiola’s past experience is promising; during his sophomore year at Nebraska, he threw for 2,000 yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions, although his season was hindered by injury.
Raiola displayed marked improvement from his first season as a starter, showcasing a better passer rating and overall efficiency. As a highly regarded recruit ranked as the No. 7 player in the 2023 recruiting cycle according to 247Sports, he faced challenges with sacks at his previous team but should find more time to operate with Oregon’s enhanced offensive line.
“I know he’s going to push me,” Moore acknowledged. “We will compete and have fun. I’m excited to see him.”
