Latest Dante Moore update could change everything for Jets draft plans

The New York Jets find themselves needing a quarterback in a year when the NFL Draft isn’t exactly loaded with high-end prospects at the position. However, recent rumors suggest that one of the biggest question marks in the 2026 draft class could be nearing a decision — one that would undoubtedly benefit the Jets.

Oregon's Dante Moore has been the wild card of this year's quarterback class. The 20-year-old first-year Oregon starter has seen his stock rise rapidly since the beginning of the season and is firmly in the mix to be one of the top picks in this year's draft. That is, of course, if he actually declares.

Rumors have suggested for months that Moore was destined to return to Oregon for his junior season, which would leave the top of this QB class dangerously thin. However, that might not be the case any longer.

National college football insider Chris Hummer reported on Monday that "there's a growing belief within the industry" that Moore will turn pro and declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. This comes after Hummer reported that Oregon has emerged as an "early school of interest" for Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola.

Dante Moore declaring for the 2026 draft would be massive for the Jets

Moore’s apparent change of heart could be driven by several factors. For one, his draft stock appears largely solidified at this point. Barring a disastrous showing in the College Football Playoff, Moore looks like a near lock to be a top-five pick in the upcoming draft. It’s possible his camp initially underestimated where his stock would settle earlier in the season.

The second — and likely more significant — factor is that Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein agreed to become Kentucky’s head coach earlier this month. Stein played a major role in Moore’s development over the past two seasons, but with him now leaving the program, there's less incentive for Moore to remain in Eugene.

That's fantastic news for a Jets team that is hoping to have as many top quarterback options as possible come April. Moore would legitimately be in the conversation to be the first overall pick, especially if he impresses in the College Football Playoff.

Indiana's Fernando Mendoza remains the de facto QB1 entering the postseason, but there's no guarantee the Jets will be in a position to trade up and land him. That's especially true if a QB-needy team like the Las Vegas Raiders ends up with the first overall pick.

If Moore doesn’t declare, it’s very possible the 2026 class becomes a one-quarterback draft, especially given how far Alabama’s Ty Simpson’s stock has fallen. That scenario would significantly reduce the Jets’ chances of landing a quarterback in April.

That’s why even the possibility of Moore entering the draft matters so much for the Jets. In a class this thin, any additional option could dramatically alter the Jets’ path forward. This is the most encouraging update we've heard to this point.