Dante Moore’s NFL Draft Buzz Could Be a Game-Changer for the Jets
The New York Jets are staring down a familiar dilemma: they need a quarterback, and the draft class they’re eyeing isn’t exactly brimming with elite options. But that narrative could be shifting - and fast - thanks to a potential shakeup involving one of the most intriguing names in college football.
Oregon’s Dante Moore has been a bit of a mystery box all season. The 20-year-old quarterback, in his first year as the Ducks’ starter, has seen his draft stock skyrocket.
He’s gone from a developmental prospect to a legitimate top-five candidate in a matter of months. That is, of course, if he declares for the 2026 NFL Draft - a decision that, until recently, seemed very much up in the air.
For a while, the buzz around Moore pointed toward him returning to Eugene for his junior year. But that narrative is starting to flip.
According to a report from national college football insider Chris Hummer, there’s growing belief within NFL circles that Moore is leaning toward turning pro. And for a Jets team desperate for quarterback clarity, that’s a potential lifeline.
Why the Jets Should Be Paying Close Attention
If Moore does indeed enter the draft, it changes the entire complexion of the 2026 quarterback class - and the Jets' potential future under center. Right now, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is widely viewed as the top QB prospect heading into the postseason. But there’s no guarantee the Jets will be in position to land him, especially if a team like the Raiders - also in the QB market - ends up with the No. 1 pick.
That’s what makes Moore’s possible declaration so critical. In a class that could otherwise be dangerously thin at the top, adding another high-end talent to the mix gives New York more flexibility. It’s not just about having options; it’s about having legitimate, franchise-altering ones.
Moore’s rise this season hasn’t come out of nowhere, but it has accelerated faster than many expected. His poise, arm talent, and ability to make plays under pressure have made scouts take notice.
And while the College Football Playoff still looms - and could shift perceptions even further - Moore’s draft stock already looks solid. He’s widely projected to be a top-five pick, and depending on how things shake out in the postseason, he could even push for the No. 1 overall selection.
Why Moore Might Be Ready to Make the Leap
Two key factors appear to be pushing Moore toward the NFL.
First, his draft stock may already be close to its ceiling. If he’s viewed as a top-five pick now, the risk-reward balance of returning to school starts to tilt.
Another year in college could expose flaws or lead to injury. Staying could also mean competing for attention in what might be a deeper 2027 QB class.
Second - and perhaps more significantly - Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein is on his way out. Stein, who played a pivotal role in Moore’s development, recently accepted the head coaching job at Kentucky. His departure leaves a void in Moore’s support system at Oregon, and that could be enough to tip the scales toward an early NFL exit.
Adding to the intrigue is Oregon’s reported interest in Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola, a move that could signal the Ducks are preparing for life after Moore. All signs are pointing toward a transition, and Moore declaring for the draft would be the logical next step.
What This Means for the Jets’ Draft Strategy
If Moore stays in school, the Jets could be staring at a one-quarterback draft - at least in terms of top-tier talent. Alabama’s Ty Simpson has seen his stock drop, and there aren’t many other names in this class generating serious first-round buzz. That’s a dangerous place to be if you’re a team like the Jets, who may not be in position to control their draft destiny.
But if Moore declares? Suddenly, there’s a second elite option on the board.
That changes everything. It gives the Jets a real shot at landing a quarterback who can be the face of the franchise.
And in a draft class where every QB counts, Moore’s presence could be the difference between another year of uncertainty and finally finding their guy.
For now, nothing is official. Moore still has the College Football Playoff to play, and his decision will come after that.
But this is the most encouraging development the Jets have seen in weeks. If Dante Moore declares, the Jets' path to a quarterback in 2026 just got a whole lot clearer.