Oregon redshirt sophomore quarterback Dante Moore introduced Wednesday he is returning to the Geese for the 2026 season, skipping an early-entry alternative as one of many 2026 NFL Draft’s high prospects.

The return of Moore means the Geese have their finest participant on offense in tow with expectations of a return journey to the School Soccer Playoff for the third consecutive season beneath coach Dan Lanning. Moore’s final begin was a forgettable one within the CFP semifinals final week, a multi-turnover effort in a loss to Indiana. Now, he will get a shot at rectifying that look by operating it again with the Geese.

“On the finish of the day, I really feel like I can nonetheless be taught a lot extra,” Moore stated on ESPN. “And naturally, as a child … since [I was] 4 years previous, I’ve dreamed about being within the NFL, however … this staff, we have been by way of lots, and lots of people are returning, so I really feel like we obtained thrilling issues coming this yr, and I am excited to maintain pushing my staff.”

CBS Sports activities’ Matt Zenitz experiences the Geese and Moore’s camp have been working by way of what Moore’s NIL/rev-share allotment would appear to be ought to he return to high school, in addition to an insurance coverage coverage within the occasion Moore suffers a critical harm in 2026. 

Wednesday was the deadline for underclassmen not taking part in within the CFP title recreation to enter the NFL Draft. Even within the hours main as much as his announcement, Moore had not disclosed his plans to these near him, together with Oregon coaches, a supply informed CBS Sports activities. Regardless of being thought of a close to lock to be one of many high picks, he was undecided following the loss to Indiana and stated his plan was to debate his future with Lanning and his household earlier than making a choice. 

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Moore was ranked because the No. 2 total prospect and second quarterback behind Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza in CBS Sports activities’ NFL Draft Prospect Rankings. He was projected to land with the New York Jets in CBS Sports activities’ newest mock after throwing for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns in his first full season as a university starter.

Moore first dedicated to Lanning and the Geese in July 2022 because the No. 8 total participant within the 2023 recruiting cycle per 247Sports earlier than finally signing with UCLA. After an up-and-down freshman season with the Bruins, Moore later transferred to Oregon in December 2023 and served because the backup to Dillon Gabriel final season earlier than assuming the beginning position this fall and main the Geese to 13 wins, together with within the CFP over James Madison and Texas Tech.

Oregon QB room set with Dante Moore, Dylan Raiola

With Moore mulling his future this month, Oregon landed a dedication from ex-Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola. Raiola can comply with in Moore’s footsteps and function a backup to grasp the scheme beneath new offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer (not too long ago promoted from tight ends coach) earlier than assuming the beginning position in 2027.

The Geese are used to switch quarterbacks in starring roles beneath Lanning. Since his arrival, transfers Bo Nix, Gabriel and Moore have helped this system ascend to elite standing as an annual nationwide title contender. There’s lots to love about Raiola from Oregon’s perspective after the previous five-star threw for two,000 yards, 18 touchdowns and 6 interceptions over 9 begins as a sophomore with the Huskers earlier than an harm reduce quick his season.

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Raiola confirmed enhanced improvement from his first season as a starter in 2024 with an improved passer score and total effectivity. Raiola, who was ranked because the No. 7 total participant within the 2023 recruiting cycle per 247Sports, was sacked usually at his earlier cease and may have extra time at his new Large Ten program given the sources Oregon has put towards its offensive entrance.

“I do know he’ll push me,” Moore stated. “I do know we’re gonna compete and have enjoyable. I am glad to have the ability to see him.”