Dante Moore makes the smart decision regarding the NFL Draft at the frustration of one major fanbase
Oregon Ducks quarterback and top NFL Draft prospect Dante Moore has made his decision to remain at Oregon and forego the 2026 NFL Draft.
The deadline for players to enter the 2026 NFL Draft class was Wednesday, with the only exceptions players participating in the College Football Championship game. All eyes were awaiting the decision of Oregon quarterback Dante Moore, a coveted quarterback prospect who, by all accounts, was projected to be a top-two pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
However, those plans came to a screeching halt on Wednesday, as Moore surprised many by electing to return to the Oregon Ducks for one more season. Moore joined several talented Oregon players such as A’Mauri Washington, Matayo Uiagalelei, and Jamari Johnson in returning to Eugene for the 2026 season.
Dante Moore’s decision to return a wise call
Moore had put up enough on film that would have ensured he was drafted very high in the 2026 NFL Draft, there’s no doubt about that. However, he would have entered with several question marks and concerns that he would have to iron out in the NFL, a league ripe with poor development.
Over his last three games, Moore threw four interceptions, and his final game against the Indiana Hoosiers was a clunker, with Moore fumbling twice and taking several poor sacks. He was completely outdueled by Fernando Mendoza, the expected No.1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and the Ducks were embarrassed, 56-22. With just one season as a starter under his belt, Moore’s lack of experience caught up with him on the biggest stage.
Now, he has a chance to gain more experience and work on developing his game without dealing with the pressure of being thrown out as an NFL starter right out the gates.
Dante Moore’s decision throws monkey wrench in 2026 NFL Draft
For the 2026 NFL Draft, it has been considered a “two horse race” at quarterback for the top between Moore and Mendoza. With Moore returning to school, that leaves it just Mendoza, who is all but guaranteed to be the first pick off the board to the Las Vegas Raiders.
For the rest of the NFL looking for a quarterback, this decision effectively shuts that down in the first round of the draft. The New York Jets, sitting with the second pick, now have their hands tied behind their back in what is already shaping up to be worst-case scenario for them.
Alabama’s Ty Simpson has announced his decision to declare for the draft, despite ending the season on a low note. He likely becomes QB2 by default, and it will be interesting to see how desperate teams get here at the top for anything at quarterback.
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