Dante Moore has decided to stay at the University of Oregon for another year. The Oregon quarterback made the announcement on ESPN, sharing his excitement about continuing his college career rather than entering the 2026 NFL draft.
“I will be coming back to Oregon for one more year,” Moore said. He’s focused on playing for the Ducks and aims to help the team become national champions.
This season, he threw for 3,565 yards, completing 71.8% of his passes. He racked up 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, along with 156 rushing yards and two scores. Despite being a top draft prospect, Moore has only 20 college starts to his name—five at UCLA and 15 at Oregon.
Moore acknowledges that, while he had some standout moments this year, he still feels he has much more to learn. He shared how valuable it was to learn from veteran players, particularly Dillon Gabriel, during his earlier seasons. “I’ve dreamed about being in the NFL since I was four. But with this team, we’re building something special,” he said.
His return is pivotal for the Ducks, as he becomes one of six players announcing they will return next season, joining various teammates in strengthening the roster. Oregon is expected to have 74 scholarship players, which sets the stage for a competitive year ahead.
According to a recent survey by the NCAA, student-athlete retention rates have seen a notable increase. This trend highlights that many athletes, like Moore, are choosing to hone their skills and deepen their college experience before moving on to professional careers.
Overall, Moore’s decision not only impacts his future but also shows a growing trend in college sports where players are prioritizing their development and team success over immediate professional opportunities. Keeping players like Moore can make a significant difference in a team’s performance and morale, as they help build a foundation for upcoming success.
For more about NCAA statistics and trends, visit the NCAA website.
