The Oregon Ducks learned of quarterback Dante Moore's decision to either stay for his final year or enter the 2026 NFL draft.
The Oregon Ducks went into the College Football Playoff with quarterback Dante Moore rising up NFL draft boards as the presumed No. 2 quarterback behind Indiana Hoosiers’ Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. Then Moore had a rough showing in the CFP against championship contending defenses, ending with a three-turnover night in the 56-22 loss to the Hoosiers in the semifinals. Moore wasn’t yet sure whether he’d head to the 2026 NFL draft or stay with the Ducks, but he made his decision on Wednesday.
Moore announced that he’s returning to Oregon in 2026 during an ESPN “SportsCenter” broadcast, stating his goal to win a national championship with the Ducks. Moore shared that he wants to return to college to feel more prepared for the pro level, which is something a lot of quarterbacks could take a page from and learn. It does make things a bit odd with the signing of former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola, who recently signed with Oregon out of the transfer portal, but it’s likely he knew that there was a chance he’d be sitting in 2026 – otherwise he may be on his way out.
Here is the full story from Ducks Roundtable writer Jordan Sigler on the surprising news and what it does for Oregon’s hopes in 2026.
Moore completed 71.8 percent of his passes for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns to 10 interceptions in 2025. The Ducks will also return a lot of their core on the defensive line and some younger pass catchers, though one of Moore’s favorite targets is heading for the draft in tight end Kenyon Sadiq. His return makes Oregon a strong favorite to contend again for the 2026 CFP.