Key Highlights
- Oregon quarterback Dante Moore is undecided on entering the 2026 NFL Draft.
- In most mock drafts, Moore is projected as a top pick, with CBS Sports placing him at No. 2 overall.
- Moore has led Oregon to a No. 5 ranking in the College Football Playoff and has thrown for 2,773 yards, 24 touchdowns, and six interceptions this season.
- The Ducks face James Madison Dukes in their College Football Playoff first round matchup on December 20th.
Dante Moore’s Decision: NFL Draft vs. Another Year at Oregon
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has been among the top performers in college football this season, helping lead his team to a No. 5 ranking in the College Football Playoff and setting up for an exciting playoff matchup against the James Madison Dukes. With the potential of entering the NFL Draft looming over him, Moore remains undecided on whether he will return to Oregon or take his talents to the professional level.
Moore’s Performance and Mock Draft Projections
Cory Pappas, a sports writer for USC Trojans On SI and Oregon Ducks On SI, reported that Moore was asked by reporters about his decision on Monday. “There’s not a decision yet. I don’t know,” he said, adding, “I’m just glad to be here and play JMU this upcoming week.” In recent mock drafts, Moore has been projected as a top pick, with CBS Sports placing him at No. 2 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Expert Analysis on Moore’s Future
The decision for Moore is significant, especially considering his current standing in the draft. “He’ll have to decide if he thinks it would be a better long-term decision to come back to school for another year of development before going pro in 2027,” Pappas noted. Moore’s performance has already placed him among the elite quarterbacks this season, and he might not see much improvement by sitting out an additional year.
Oregon Ducks’ Outlook
For Oregon, Moore’s decision will have a substantial impact on their future plans. If he decides to enter the NFL Draft, the team would need to find a new quarterback for 2026. The Ducks are currently led by Moore, who has started all 12 games this year and thrown for impressive statistics: 2,773 yards, 24 touchdowns, and six interceptions.
One potential candidate is Akili Smith Jr., a four-star recruit in Oregon’s 2025 class.
However, with several other big names around the country entering the transfer portal, including Sam Leavitt, Dylan Raiola, Aiden Chiles, and DJ Lagway, the Ducks will face stiff competition for their quarterback position.
Regardless of Moore’s decision, the upcoming matchup against James Madison Dukes in the College Football Playoff first round on December 20th promises to be a thrilling contest. As Oregon aims to make a run in the playoffs, Moore’s performance and future plans remain at the forefront of everyone’s mind.