From Oregon Ducks On SI · · 3m
Dante Moore's NFL Draft Stock After Concussion
Dante Moore's injury return could boost his NFL draft stock despite concussion absence.
In brief
Dante Moore's injury return could boost his NFL draft stock despite concussion absence. Dante Moore's NFL draft stock remains strong with top-25 rankings and leadership qualities despite missing games due to concussion. Originally reported by Oregon Ducks On SI.
Dante Moore's NFL Draft Situation
Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore chose to return to college instead of declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft where he was projected as a top-five selection.
Concussion Impact on Season
Moore missed two full games since sustaining a concussion against the USC Trojans on sept. 26.
Coach's Return Timeline
Oregon coach Dan Lanning has not provided a timeline for Moore's return despite him practicing and participating in pregame warmups.
NFL Draft Stock Concerns
Questions loom about how Moore's absence is impacting his NFL Draft stock.
NFL Scouting Presence
NFL scouts and personnel have been listed on the press box seating chart at Autzen Stadium with anywhere from five to 30+ people.
Scout's Assessment
An NFL scout shared insight with Oregon Ducks On SI that combined his own evaluation with feedback from other scouts.
Risk of Falling
Not playing again this season could increase Moore's 'risk of falling' in the NFL Draft due to added uncertainty.
Current Draft Position
Moore has enough talent and tape to be 'probably' a first-round pick but room for improvement in throwing under duress and decision making.
Season Stats
Moore has 926 passing yards, nine touchdowns and zero interceptions across three full games and roughly one quarter against USC.
Scout's Context
Scouts account for protection and receiver play but early-season growing pains 'showed poorly for Dante'.
Mel Kiper's Ranking
NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Moore at No. 25 overall on his first 2027 NFL Draft Big Board.
Kiper's Previous Prediction
Before the season, Kiper predicted a two-quarterback race between Moore and Arch Manning for the No. 1 overall selection.
ESPN Evaluation
ESPN ranked Moore No. 6 at the position with an early Day 2 projection after his concussion.
Leadership Profile
Moore builds strong relationships with teammates through efforts like taking the entire receiving room to dinner.
Teammate Testimony
Former Duck receiver Malik Benson described Moore's door visits where he talked about background and family instead of game plans.
Oregon's NFL Pipeline
Oregon has had at least six players taken in the NFL Draft in each of the last four years with 31 total selections under Lanning.
The bottom line
Dante Moore's NFL draft stock remains strong with top-25 rankings and leadership qualities despite missing games due to concussion.
