Dante Moore’s Return to Oregon Shakes Up Cardinals’ Trade Leverage, Leaves Jets Scrambling
GLENDALE - The 2026 NFL Draft was shaping up to be a two-quarterback race at the top, which initially spelled trouble for the Arizona Cardinals. The franchise had made it clear they were ready to move on from Kyler Murray after seven seasons, and with the New York Jets and Las Vegas Raiders holding the top two picks - and both seemingly locked in on quarterbacks - Arizona’s options for trading Murray looked limited.
But everything changed on Wednesday.
In a stunning twist, Oregon quarterback Dante Moore announced he’s returning to Eugene for the 2026 season, opting to forgo the NFL Draft despite being widely projected as a top-two pick. The ripple effect of that decision could be massive, particularly for the Jets - and, by extension, for the Cardinals.
Moore’s Return: A Game-Changer
Moore’s decision to stay in school reshapes the top of the draft board. With Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza still expected to go No. 1 to the Raiders, the Jets are suddenly left without a clear-cut quarterback option at No.
- That’s a nightmare scenario for a franchise that had reportedly been planning to move on from Justin Fields this offseason.
If that plan holds, New York would enter the 2026 season with 36-year-old Tyrod Taylor as its projected starter.
That’s not exactly a long-term solution - and it’s certainly not what Jets fans were hoping for.
Arizona’s Leverage Skyrockets
Before Moore’s announcement, Arizona was stuck in a tough spot. Both the Jets and Raiders were poised to draft their next franchise quarterbacks, which meant little to no trade leverage for the Cardinals in any potential deal involving Murray.
But now? The script has flipped.
With New York suddenly quarterback-needy and no longer holding a top-tier draft option, Arizona is in the driver’s seat. The Cardinals can now command a premium in any trade talks with the Jets, and they’re in a position to extract serious value for Murray - whether that’s in the form of high draft picks, young talent, or both.
This isn’t just a boost - it’s a complete power shift.
What’s Next for the Cardinals?
Arizona’s front office now has options, and that’s a great place to be. They could deal Murray for a haul, roll with veteran Jacoby Brissett in 2026, and target a developmental quarterback later in the draft. Or they could use that newfound leverage to position themselves for a bigger move up the board if another QB prospect emerges.
Either way, Moore’s decision has turned what looked like a limited market into a potential bidding war - and the Cardinals are poised to benefit.
A Pivotal Offseason Ahead
For the Jets, the path forward is murky. They could hold tight, ride with Taylor, and hope to land their guy in the 2027 draft.
But that’s a tough sell for a fanbase that’s grown tired of transitional seasons and quarterback uncertainty. The pressure is on, and Arizona knows it.
As for the Cardinals, this offseason could mark a turning point. With Murray’s trade value soaring and quarterback-needy teams suddenly scrambling, Arizona has the rare opportunity to reset its future on its own terms.
The chessboard has shifted. Now it’s up to the Cardinals to make their move.