Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore recently made headlines by deciding to forgo the 2026 NFL Draft. That move has sparked plenty of buzz and debate.
There’s been speculation that Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals played a part in his choice. Moore, though, says he’s staying for the right reasons—he wants to get better, not just cash in.
This comes after a 2025 season where Moore really showed he could be a top NFL draft pick. He’s coming back to Oregon for 2026 under Coach Dan Lanning, hoping to sharpen his game even more and maybe, just maybe, end up the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Moore’s Decision to Stay at Oregon
In an interview with On3’s Nick Shultz, Moore talked about whether NIL was a factor. “No, [NIL] wasn’t a factor at all,” Moore told On3. “I mean, you have $55 million guaranteed in the NFL as the second pick overall. Money doesn’t play a factor with me.”
He’s focused on getting better, not a quick payday. That’s pretty rare these days, honestly.
Performance in the 2025 Season
Moore’s 2025 season was tough to ignore. He led the Ducks to a 13-2 record and got them to the College Football Playoff Semifinal.
He finished with a 71.8 completion percentage, 3,565 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and only 10 picks. Not bad at all.
He also chipped in 156 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The guy’s got some wheels, too.
Background and Development
Before coming to Oregon, Moore had a rough 2023 with the UCLA Bruins. He completed just 53.5 percent of his passes, with 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions in nine games.
Transferring to Oregon turned things around. In 2024, he sat behind Dillon Gabriel, using that year to learn and settle into the Ducks’ system.
Breakout Season
That patience paid off in 2025. Moore stepped in and immediately made an impact, even though there were plenty of questions about Oregon’s quarterback situation.
He quickly quieted the doubters. His leadership was a huge part of Oregon’s success.
The Role of NIL
Lots of folks assumed NIL deals were a big reason Moore stuck around. According to On3, his NIL Valuation is $3 million—the highest on Oregon’s roster—and he ranks No. 7 among all NCAA programs with a roster value of $2.8 million.
Still, Moore insists it’s not about the money. He’s focused on improving and getting ready for the pros.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With a full season as the starter behind him, Moore’s set up to take another leap in 2026. The return of key offensive players—Dakorien Moore, Evan Stewart, Jamari Johnson, and Iapani Laloulu—gives him a solid, familiar group to work with.
That kind of continuity? It’s huge for a quarterback looking to make that next jump.
Potential for Heisman Trophy and NFL Draft
Moore’s got a real shot at leading Oregon to a national title. He’s also in the mix for a Heisman Trophy run, if things break his way.
Staying in college another year feels like a smart move to boost his draft stock. By the end of 2026, he could be right in the conversation for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Coach Dan Lanning’s Role
Coach Dan Lanning’s had a big influence on Moore’s development. His approach and system have given Moore the space to grow his skills in a real, meaningful way.
There’s a lot of trust and respect between Moore and Lanning. That relationship has been key in Moore’s choice to stick around at Oregon.
Conclusion
Dante Moore’s choice to skip the 2026 NFL Draft and stick around at Oregon says a lot about where his head’s at. He’s clearly focused on leveling up, both on and off the field.
The 2025 season was strong for him, no doubt. With a solid coaching staff and a bunch of teammates coming back, there’s a real sense that 2026 could be even bigger.
If Moore keeps trending upward, Oregon fans have every reason to be excited. Could he end up as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft? At this point, it sure seems possible.
For more on Moore’s decision and how he’s performed, check out the full article on Sports Illustrated.
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