Oregon Quarterback Dante Moore to Return for 2026 Season

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has announced that he will not enter the NFL Draft and instead will return for the 2026 season. This decision comes shortly after the Ducks’ defeat in the Peach Bowl, where they lost 56-22 to Indiana. Moore made his announcement on ESPN’s “SportsCenter,” emphasizing that returning to school is the best choice for his development.

Dante Moore’s Career and Performance

Moore, a redshirt sophomore, is a highly regarded player with NFL potential. Despite a challenging outing in the Peach Bowl, where he threw a pick-six and lost two fumbles, he completed the season with impressive statistics. He passed for 3,565 yards, completed 296 of 412 attempts, and recorded 30 touchdowns against 10 interceptions.

• Season Statistics:
  • Passing Yards: 3,565
  • Touchdowns: 30
  • Interceptions: 10

Impact on NFL Draft Prospects

Moore was projected as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Analysts had noted that even with a poor performance in the Peach Bowl, he remained a top contender among quarterbacks. His decision to return increases the competition for spots in the upcoming draft, significantly altering the landscape for quarterbacks.

The potential first-round candidates now have notable shifts in rankings. Players like Ty Simpson from Alabama and Trinidad Chambliss from Ole Miss may rise in visibility but won’t likely reach Moore’s level of consideration. As Moore prepares for another season, he may solidify his status as a top prospect for the future.

Oregon Ducks Moving Forward

With Moore’s return, the Oregon Ducks are aligning themselves for another attempt at the College Football Playoffs and the coveted national championship. The team has also made arrangements to bolster their quarterback lineup by signing Dylan Raiola, a former five-star recruit from Nebraska, who is expected to provide backup support in the 2026 season.

Overall, Moore’s choice to stay at Oregon serves not only his professional aspirations but also enhances the Ducks’ prospects for the next season. Fans eagerly anticipate his development and performance as he aims for excellence in 2026.