Oregon’s Moore rejects NFL draft, targets national title ahead of USC clash

Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore has announced his decision to return to the university for the upcoming season, effectively rejecting widespread projections that he would enter the 2026 NFL Draft as a top-three selection. The move overturns earlier speculation that had positioned Moore as an immediate professional prospect, with the quarterback instead choosing to pursue a national title with the Ducks.

The decision follows a redshirt sophomore campaign that saw Moore lead Oregon to the College Football Playoff semifinals. His performance last season drew significant attention from analytics firms, with Moore ranking sixth among FBS quarterbacks in PFF passing grade at 90.2. He also recorded 30 big-time throws, tying for the most in the FBS, and led the nation in PFF passing grade on deep throws with a score of 98.5.

Despite previously declaring for the NFL draft in April 2025, Moore has reversed his stance to remain in college football. Analysts Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick have listed him as the seventh-best player in the sport heading into the new season, while PFF ranks him as the third-best quarterback. Moore returns with what is described as an even more explosive offence and a roster full of experience.

The announcement presents a significant strategic challenge for the USC Trojans, who must defend against Moore’s attack in their upcoming matchup. The contest is expected to reshape the reputations of both programs, with USC facing the task of containing an offence that analysts suggest is motivated by a Heisman-level performance.

As the season approaches, the focus shifts to whether Moore can replicate his previous statistical output to maintain his draft stock. While a repeat of last year’s performance would likely result in an early draft selection, the immediate priority for the Ducks is securing a national championship, placing the Big Ten conference in the spotlight.