As college football players across the nation declare for the NFL Draft, speculation surrounding quarterback Dante Moore’s future intensifies. This week, Moore acknowledged that he has yet to reach a decision regarding his career path, noting uncertainty in his plans.
Analysts are closely watching Moore, particularly Mel Kiper Jr., who consistently ranks him as the top prospect in his 2026 Big Board. Despite only being a redshirt sophomore set to make his 18th career start for the Oregon Ducks against the James Madison Dukes in the first round of the College Football Playoff, Moore’s potential has drawn much attention.
Moore faces a pivotal choice: return to Oregon for another season or declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, where projections place him as a top-five pick. While the decision may seem straightforward, the long-term consequences of either path could significantly impact his development as a quarterback.
Todd McShay, an established draft analyst, shared insights on his podcast, highlighting a concerning trend for quarterbacks with limited starts. Historically, players with fewer than 20 college starts, like former first-round picks Mitchell Trubisky, Mark Sanchez, and Anthony Richardson, have struggled to secure lucrative second contracts in the NFL. Moore’s own collegiate experience aligns with this pattern, having started only one full season after transferring to Oregon.
Another layer to Moore’s decision comes from the projected quarterback talent in the 2027 draft class, which may include notable names like Julian Sayin, Arch Manning, and LaNorris Sellers. This could impact Moore’s standing should he choose to enter the draft this year. With less competition in 2026 featuring potentially just Moore, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, and Alabama’s Ty Simpson, the circumstances may favor his candidacy should he opt to declare.
Moreover, McShay noted that Moore’s close relationship with former offensive coordinator Will Stein, who was recently hired by the Kentucky Wildcats, could also influence his decision.
Ultimately, McShay conveyed his belief that Moore would benefit from returning to school for another year, emphasizing that time and experience are crucial for success at the professional level. The decision ahead of Moore holds significant weight, with the potential to shape his career trajectory in the NFL.