Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore must make a critical decision after a concussion cut his college football season short. Analysts are divided on Moore’s next steps. One suggests he should return to college for more experience.
Moore had been projected as a potential No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, a concussion and lack of medical clearance placed him on the sidelines. With backup Dylan Raiola playing in his stead, Moore lost valuable playing time needed for development.
J.D. Pickell, a college football analyst, believes Moore could still be a first-round draft pick if he departs from Oregon after this season. Yet, Pickell argues that turning pro might not align with Moore’s developmental goals.
“This year was about playing college football for experience, not draft stock,” Pickell stated. “Here’s what Moore achieved this season- three full games if you combine those against Portland State and USC.”
Moore also played against Oklahoma State and Boise State. However, “three-ish games” aren’t enough to prepare for the NFL, according to Pickell. He believes Moore feels there’s more room for improvement before turning pro.
Pickell emphasized, “Going pro doesn’t make sense based on Moore’s priorities and past decisions. I would be surprised if he opts to leave.”
Moore, a 6-foot-3 senior, accumulated 926 passing yards and nine touchdowns before his injury. He excelled against Boise State with 378 yards and three touchdowns and had 280 yards and four touchdowns in a decisive win over Portland State.
His last appearance was against USC on Sept. 26, where a hit from USC linebacker Desman Stephens led to a serious injury.
CBS Sports recently ranked Moore as the No. 45 prospect for the 2027 NFL Draft, marking a decrease from earlier projections.
The 2027 draft could feature several first-round quarterbacks, including Oklahoma State’s Drew Mestemaker and Notre Dame’s CJ Carr. Many NFL teams are currently seeking franchise quarterbacks due to injuries this season.
Returning for another college season might provide Moore with further experience. Conversely, entering the NFL would let him develop within a professional system and under experienced coaching.
An example is Alabama’s Ty Simpson, drafted by the Rams to learn from NFL MVP Matthew Stafford. Moore’s path remains uncertain as he weighs his next move.