This is an expectation and not an official announcement. He could probably use another year in college before going pro.

Dante Moore Reportedly Expected to Return to Oregon, Forg...

The quarterback class in the 2026 NFL draft might not be as strong as expected, with Dante Moore reportedly leaning toward staying at Oregon for another season.

Today an article in The Athletic was a mock NFL Draft for this April's 2026 draft, and that writer placed Dante as the No. 19 pick in the first round to Pittsburg.

If Dante was dominating every game and bored out of his mind, MAYBE he goes.

The reality is Dante is playing the long game. He sat for a year to get better already, and sees Uber experienced Bo and Dylan starting in the NFL while Shadeur rides the pine.

The only thing that could make him think twice at this point is if Will leaves and he can't stand his replacement.

Edited Thursday at 07:42 PM1 day by Solar

Waiting one year could be the difference between a solid retirement contract to generational wealth. 2025 draft produced $70+ million for a top 4 draft pick. #16 was around $30 million. After all the finger dipping is done, 40% ends in your wallet. Still more than most of us will ever see. For comparison, Derrick Harmon was drafted #21 for $18 and $10 for a total of $28 million. Cam Ward was #1 for $49 and $32 for a total of around $81 million. B1111G difference from #1 to #21. If Dante isn't projected in the first 4 picks or so, and he projects to be a top pick in a weak 2027 QB class? Then I would wait for 2027 draft.

There is a lot of ball left to play though. When that O-line finally gels then DM has a great chance to rise in the rankings. These last 4 games have a beautiful opportunity to put the finishing touch on this season. If DM plays beautifully through the end of the season, I would expect a declaration for the draft. A top 4/5 pick is a serious possibility. Just my thoughts.

Edited Thursday at 08:57 PM1 day by 1Funduck

No way is he a NFL QB as of right now.

2 hours ago, VegasDuck said:

No way is he a NFL QB as of right now.

He could make millions and be a first round washout, like many before him.

If he wants to be a successful NFL QB he needs another year (or two). If he can’t figure out pre-snap defensive disguises and zone blitzes/simulated pressures in college from the likes of Indiana (let alone Ohio State), how’s he going to handle NFL defenses. Dante has the talent but a lot to learn, which will only come with game experience.

2 hours ago, OregonDucks said:

He could make millions and be a first round washout, like many before him.

If he wants to be a successful NFL QB he needs another year (or two). If he can’t figure out pre-snap defensive disguises and zone blitzes/simulated pressures in college from the likes of Indiana (let alone Ohio State), how’s he going to handle NFL defenses. Dante has the talent but a lot to learn, which will only come with game experience.

Yep....and that is why Oregon should always get an experienced portal QB as we did before. But...

Todd McShay: 'Dante Moore is going to be an Oregon Duck next year'

"There's one scout I just talked to, book it, he's gonna be back at Oregon next year," McShay said. "The resources, the parents, the agent, the coaches are all in lock-step on this thing. Dante Moore is going to be an Oregon Duck next year, and he's going to be paid handsomely to be that. But he will be back."

Just some color to this topic. DM will not get a better chance to learn his trade within the Minors. If, I do mean IF, he is an NFL QB by the scouts then he should be way better educated within the minors and get paid for it. He just might turn into something very good/great.