The New York Jets are routinely linked to selecting Oregon quarterback Dante Moore at No. 2 overall in the 2026 NFL draft.
That conversation gained more context after Moore struggled mightily versus Indiana in the Peach Bowl with a National Championship appearance on the line.
Moore committed three turnovers during the first half. Indiana carried a sizable lead into halftime and ultimately won 56-22. Moore hasn’t even officially declared for the NFL draft yet. The Jets are awaiting his decision.
Moore didn’t look prepared to be an instant impact starter at quarterback in the NFL. He’s also very inexperienced as a one-year starter at Oregon. Moore attempted eight passes at Oregon last year, and 213 at UCLA in 2023.
Recent NFL draft cycles have proven that experience at quarterback is a decent indicator of success. Rookies like Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix experienced immediate success after playing a ton of football in college. Some recent busts include inexperienced QB prospects like Zach Wilson and Trey Lance (the Jets learned the hard way).
If Moore declares for the 2026 NFL draft, it’s tough to imagine the Jets passing on his raw talent. If Moore ends up in East Rutherford, the Jets should strongly consider bringing him along slowly. General manager Darren Mougey should also acquire a veteran quarterback capable of starting Week 1.
Some of the options in free agency could include Malik Willis, Jimmy Garoppolo, Mitch Trubisky, Russell Wilson, and Marcus Mariota. That list fails to inspire much confidence, but those are the best backup quarterbacks on expiring contracts. Alternatively, veterans like Tua Tagovailoa and Kyler Murray could be available via trade.
Perhaps the Jets take a higher-risk plunge with Murray or Tagovailoa. That would allow them to potentially compete right away with a high-upside temporary solution while Moore develops behind the scenes.
As exciting as Moore’s potential is, he doesn’t appear capable of saving the Jets immediately in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 2026 NFL draft: If Jets take Dante Moore, team also needs a veteran QB
Reporting by Justin Melo, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
