Dante Moore took everyone by surprise with his January announcement that he is returning to Eugene for another year. The Oregon Ducks quarterback walked away from a hefty paycheck and would not declare for the NFL underprepared.

“It was a tough decision, but overall kind of just felt like I wasn’t prepared yet for my next step,” Moore told On3 earlier this week. “There was a lot that came with it, but overall, I’m glad I made that decision. I’m going to apply 100% effort to whatever I do this upcoming year to help me get prepared for next year.”

Moore is still sore from the Ducks’ 56-22 loss to the 2025 national champions, the Indiana Hoosiers. The loss stings Moore for several reasons. The 20-year-old led the Ducks to their first-ever Peach Bowl in the program's history. 

Secondly, he was responsible for three turnovers in the first half after they had outgained the Hoosiers 378 to 362 in total offense. Moore completed 24 out of 32 passes, threw two touchdowns and one interception. Their 13-2 campaign ended in a wipeout loss to a team that was undefeated last year.

Unsatisfied with his performance, Moore, via ESPN, announced that he will wait out this year’s NFL. His commitment to his program and improving himself is commendable. Especially, when he had the option to bag an eight-figure check. 

“Moore gave up a chance to make nearly $50M in guaranteed money. Last year's No. 2 pick, Travis Hunter, made $46.65M guaranteed,” NFL insider Adam Schefter wrote in a January 15 X post.

The quarterback was touted to be the sought-after prospect just behind Fernando Mendoza. Moore’s focus, however, is to “be national champions” this season.

His talent is undeniable, but he is not without some shortcomings. 

What Dante Moore Needs To Improve Before The 2027 NFL Draft

In an episode of the Football 301 podcast, draft expert Nate Tice and draft analyst Cory Kinnan weighed in on players who will make waves in the next draft. Arch Manning of the Texas Longhorns took the first spot, and Dante Moore followed suit.

“He’s my quarterback three,” Tice said. “With Moore, as you said, he has to get a little bigger, which I agree with.”

Moore passed for 3,565 yards and threw 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. But he has much to work on to achieve his dreams from last year.

After this episode, a May 19 AOL reported that Moore “needs to fill out his frame to enhance durability,” as opined by Kinnan. He also mentioned that Moore’s athleticism is good, but does not stand out, and that he struggles under pressure, and that he tends “to play too safe.”

Well, Moore is certainly aware of his shortcomings and is back to work on them. Will he reach his goals this season? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar