How Much Money Did Dante Moore Give Up By Returning to Oregon, Skipping 2026 NFL Draft?

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore announced on SportsCenter that he is returning to the Ducks next season.

According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, Moore is turning down tens of millions (for the moment) in order to head back to school:

"By going back to Oregon, Moore, 20, gave up a chance to make nearly $50 million in guaranteed money," Thamel wrote. "Last year's No. 2 pick, Travis Hunter, made $46.65 million fully guaranteed, and that number projects to go up this year."

Moore was projected as the No. 2 overall pick to the New York Jets in the latest B/R NFL Scouting Department mock draft, and that was a very plausible landing spot for him given Gang Green's need for a signal-caller.

At this juncture, all signs are pointing toward Indiana quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner and potential national champion Fernando Mendoza going first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders.

That left the door open for a QB to the Jets, who will now have to consider other options.

Although Moore is giving up a ton of money in the short-term, it's very possible he's considered a high pick again next year.

Moore might even be the QB1 in 2027. However, he'll have some competition in the form of Texas' Arch Manning. Other potential top quarterbacks include Ohio State's Julian Sayin and USC's Jayden Maiava.

Still, Moore is an exceptional talent who has starred at Oregon, leading the team to a 13-2 record and a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinal. The Ducks have a bright 2026 to look forward to with the 20-year-old aboard, especially now that he has 15 more starts under his belt to help his experience.