University Of Oregon Quarterback Dante Moore, The 12th Wealthiest College Football Player, Declines To Enter NFL To Remain In College – AfroTech
Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore has turned down the NFL draft to remain in college.
Fortune reports he has decided to remain another year at the University of Oregon. He was projected to be the No. 2 draft pick. In 2025, No. 2 pick Travis Hunter secured a $46.7 million deal to play four years with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Fortune reports that this year’s earnings are projected to increase.
Why He Turned Down The Pros
“This year, I’ve had many great throws, many great plays, but at the end of the day I feel I can still learn so much more,” Moore said in an interview with ESPN on Wednesday. “As a kid, since I was 4 years old, I’ve dreamed about being in the NFL — but this team, we’ve been through a lot, a lot of people are returning, so we’ve got some exciting things to come this year. I’m excited to keep pushing my team.”
Moore’s decision prevents him from earning an NFL salary. However, Moore is still doing well for himself as a result of name, image, and likeness deals, reports the outlet.
The University of Oregon’s athletes have also benefited from NIL deals through a partnership with Nike founder and university alum Phil Knight. Knight developed Division Street, a venture that helps market athletes at the university so they can earn profit from NIL, notes Forbes.
“Phil Knight is bankrolling that whole thing and wants to see them win a national title,” an unnamed NIL agent told CBS Sports. “They are really, really aggressive with money.”
NIL Deals
Moore snagged an NIL deal with Nike in October 2025, according to Sports Illustrated.
He has also secured NIL deals with Beats by Dr. Dre, Factor Meals, Raising Cane’s, and Facebook, per Yahoo! Sports.
NIL Valuation
Moore’s current NIL valuation is $2.3 million, per On3. He is also the 12th-wealthiest college football player, notes Fortune.
