Oregon’s quarterback picture is still up in the air as Dante Moore continues to weigh his NFL decision, but that hasn’t stopped the Ducks from doing their homework. The transfer portal is about to swing open, and Oregon’s already showing signs it’s not going to be caught off guard-especially at the most important position on the field.
Two names have surfaced early in the conversation, and both bring intriguing potential if the Ducks need to pivot.
Let’s start with Dylan Raiola. The former five-star recruit and current Nebraska quarterback is reportedly evaluating his options, and Oregon is among the programs in the mix, according to national reporting.
The Ducks have history here-they were heavily involved in Raiola’s recruitment back in his high school days in Georgia. Oregon offered early, stayed engaged throughout, and was considered a serious contender before Raiola ultimately chose the Cornhuskers.
Now, with two years of eligibility left and his name carrying real weight, Raiola would be a high-profile addition to any quarterback room. For Oregon, his emergence as a possible option isn’t just about name recognition-it’s a reflection of the program staying aggressive behind the scenes. Whether Moore returns or heads to the league, the Ducks are making sure they’re not left scrambling.
Then there’s Sam Leavitt, another quarterback who’s been linked to Oregon. After a season at Arizona State, Leavitt has hit the portal, and there’s mutual interest here.
The fit makes a lot of sense. Leavitt played his high school ball at West Linn, just outside Portland, so there’s a strong home-state connection.
His college journey has already taken him from Michigan State to Tempe, and now he’s looking for his next stop.
Leavitt brings two years of eligibility and, just as importantly, experience in Power Five football. He helped lead Arizona State to a Big 12 championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff this past season-no small feat.
That kind of résumé instantly makes him a compelling option for any program looking for a ready-to-go quarterback. For Oregon, he’d offer both flexibility and familiarity with the region, making him a plug-and-play option if needed.
The bigger picture here? Oregon isn’t panicking-it’s preparing.
Moore holds the cards for now, and his decision will shape the Ducks’ offseason plans. But with the transfer portal officially opening on Jan. 2 and conversations already happening across the country, Oregon knows it can’t wait around.
The Ducks are positioning themselves to move quickly, whether that means sticking with Moore, bringing in a transfer, or both.
The quarterback carousel is just getting started, and Oregon’s making sure it has a front-row seat.
