Bryson Blue
Writer
After almost a week of anticipation, the star quarterback of the Oregon Ducks, Dante Moore, has made his decision on his future.
Many believed Moore was a lock to be the second pick in the 2026 NFL Draft behind Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza, making it hard to believe he would be back at Oregon.
However, to fans’ surprise and delight, Moore has decided to run it back with the Ducks in 2026.
After a devastating loss to the Indiana Hoosiers in the College Football Playoff semifinal, one question was on everybody’s mind: What does this mean for Dante Moore and the future of the Oregon Ducks? Moore could have easily taken off for the NFL Draft, and money-wise, no one would blame him.
But something interesting started happening. Many players who were expected to go to the NFL pivoted and came back for 2026. This team knows that they are better than what they put on the field in the Peach Bowl. They believe in Dan Lanning, the culture, and the chemistry they built.
With Moore furthering his development, the starting defensive line returning, and all the talent they added on offense coming through, the sky is the limit in 2026. Moore saw that it was best for him to prepare another year and take care of some unfinished business. He wants to win the National Championship with Oregon while ensuring his future in the NFL as a QB.
All of Moore’s flaws in the Peach Bowl and in general can be addressed through more reps and experience. An extra offseason and at least 12 more starts would make Moore a much greater QB on day one in the NFL, meaning his potential to have a long career increases.
This season, Moore threw for 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He was accurate, completing 71.8 percent of his passes. The standout QB is a great pocket passer, but would struggle when he was forced to improvise, and his decision-making was affected. But having a second year as the true starter will help him overcome those flaws and improve his awareness.
Instead of starting over with the new Nebraska Cornhusker transfer QB Dylan Raiola, the Ducks will be running it back with their proven talent. As the transfer portal period carries on, the Ducks will look to bring all the right pieces in to compete for a national championship in 2026.
Cody Croy
Writer
Baylor transfer kicker Connor Hawkins has signed with Ohio State, according to Rivals insider Hayes Fawcett. He will have 3 seasons of eligibility remaining. Hawkins took to social media after his commitment, posting “Let’s roll!!” On X. After some uncertainty regarding the kicking situation, the Buckeyes finally have their guy. Hawkins played two seasons for […]
Cody Croy
Writer
Northwestern transfer tight end Hunter Welcing has signed with Ohio State. The Illinois native will have one season of eligibility remaining. He is a former 3-star recruit in the class of 2020. Welcing, who will be gearing up for his sixth season of college football, spent five of them with the Northwestern Wildcats. Battling injury, […]
Cody Croy
Writer
Former Alabama Crimson Tide defensive linemen Qua Russaw and James Smith have announced their commitment to Ohio State, per Hayes Fawcett. The pair visited Ohio State together last week. The Buckeyes now have 11 transfer portal additions and 30 departures during this cycle. Qua Russaw, a redshirt junior, will have two seasons of eligibility remaining. […]
