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Dante Moore, the quarterback for the University of Oregon Ducks, has announced his decision to play another year of college football. This choice means turning down an impressive eight-figure salary. The 20-year-old athlete made the announcement on Wednesday, revealing he will remain with the Ducks for the 2026 season, thus delaying his entry into the NFL draft.
Moore was anticipated to be a top-two pick in the upcoming draft. Last season, the No. 2 overall pick, Travis Hunter, signed a lucrative four-year deal worth $46.65 million. With this year’s projected earnings expected to rise, Moore’s decision to stay is notable.
Moore’s Commitment to Growth
In an interview with ESPN, Moore expressed his desire to further develop as a player. He stated, “This year, I’ve had many great throws, many great plays, but at the end of the day I feel I can still learn so much more.” He emphasized his long-standing dream of playing in the NFL but recognized the importance of his current team and their journey together.
Historical Context of Delayed NFL Entry
Moore’s choice mirrors monumental decisions made by past college athletes. Notably, Andrew Luck of Stanford opted in 2011 to delay his NFL entry to complete his degree. Similarly, Matt Leinart of USC made a comparable move in 2005. These decisions may indicate a shifting trend among college athletes, who are beginning to weigh their options more carefully.
The Role of NIL in Athlete Decisions
Central to this trend is the expanding opportunities provided by name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations. A significant ruling from the Supreme Court in June 2021 allowed the NCAA to establish a policy that enables college athletes to profit from their own personal brands. In addition, a recent House settlement allows colleges to directly compensate their athletes for the first time, which is anticipated to distribute approximately $20.5 million in NIL revenue during the 2025-2026 season.
- Moore benefits from NIL opportunities, partnering with brands like Nike and Raising Cane’s.
- His net worth stands at approximately $2.3 million, ranking him as the highest-earning Oregon Duck.
University of Oregon’s NIL Influence
The University of Oregon has positioned itself as a significant player in the NIL landscape, largely due to the philanthropy of Nike founder Phil Knight. With donations exceeding $1 billion as of 2023, Knight’s involvement has led to the creation of Division Street, a platform that markets Oregon athletes effectively. His commitment aims not only to enhance the athletes’ financial prospects but also to propel the Ducks towards another championship title.
Transforming the Draft Landscape
NIL deals are reshaping the dynamics of professional drafts across various sports. The 2025 NBA draft saw a notable decline in early entrants, attributed in part to the allure of NIL opportunities. Basketball analysts have remarked on how NIL has changed the decision-making process for many student athletes, allowing them to benefit financially while honing their skills.
In summary, Dante Moore’s choice to remain in college football, influenced by the evolving landscape of NIL, highlights a significant shift in how student-athletes approach their futures and professional aspirations.
