Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has led the Ducks to an 11-1 record this season. Despite missing out on a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff, the No. 5 Ducks will face the No. 12 James Madison Dukes in Eugene on Saturday.
After stellar performances this season, Moore’s future has grabbed headlines, with the option of staying in college football for an extra season or declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Analyst Outlines Dante Moore’s Dilemma
During Thursday’s segment of the “McShay Show,” analyst Todd McShay detailed Moore’s dilemma about whether to stay at Oregon next season to gain more experience or depart for the NFL immediately.
“When he’s drafted, he’ll be 20 years old if he leaves early,” McShay said. “He has 17 starts. He’s mature, truly. You can go back and play 13-15 next year and now you’re in the 30 range where all the top QBs are. History has shown us the failure rate of guys who have 17 starts.
“He’s not in a rush, but then his offensive coordinator leaves. Will Stein, who has been key in his development. The new O.C. promoted from within, Drew Mehringer, from what I hear, a nod from Dante Moore, ‘Don’t want a lot of change if I’m coming back.’ All of these factors are in play.”
In ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest draft big board, Moore is ranked as the No. 1 prospect in the class of 2026, even ahead of the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Moore Admits to Uncertainty About Future
Moore has tallied 2,733 yards on 72.5% completion, resulting in 24 touchdowns and six interceptions, while adding 191 rushing yards, resulting in one touchdown for the Ducks this season. He transferred from the UCLA Bruins to Oregon last year, where he was Dillon Gabriel’s backup, before taking the reins this season.
During his weekly news conference before Oregon’s clash against James Madison, Moore admitted to uncertainty about his future.
“It’s been interesting. I mean, so many thoughts and so many things going on through my head, and I feel like just having coach Lanning and having a support team that helps me get to my everyday life and making sure that I stay focused on the main thing,” Moore said.
“And of course, my main thing right now is to be with my feet at being here with my teammates,” Moore said. “Of course, everybody keeps asking questions, but there’s not a decision yet.”
Underclassmen will have until Jan. 14 to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, while players whose teams will participate in the national championship game on Jan. 20 will have until Jan. 23 to declare their intentions.
