Dylan Raiola. Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

What Dante Moore's return means for recent Oregon transfer Dylan Raiola

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Jan 15, 2026 8:05 AM ET

The decision from Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore to return for the 2026 season is an exciting sign for Oregon fans. The redshirt sophomore led the Ducks to the College Football Playoff semifinals, and he should only get better with another offseason of training and reps.

On the flip side of Moore's return, though, is former five-star recruit Dylan Raiola, as his chances of playing time in 2026 likely evaporated.

Dylan Raiola recently transferred to Oregon

Raiola, one of the most coveted quarterbacks in this year's transfer portal, committed to Oregon just days before Moore's announcement. Raiola transferred in from Nebraska, where he'd spent the first two seasons of his career.

Raiola's transfer to Oregon indicated to some that Moore would be leaving for the NFL Draft, but with Wednesday's announcement, that is obviously no longer the case.

Oregon QB Dante Moore is choosing to RETURN to school for the 2026 season and will forgo the NFL Draft, per @PeteThamel

Former Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola recently transferred to Oregon pic.twitter.com/l68PGn4l7y
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 14, 2026

What does the 2026 season look like for Dylan Raiola?

Moore returning to school means he will once again be the starter for the Ducks in 2026. That means Raiola will be relegated to the backup role behind Moore this season.

It is a familiar situation for head coach Dan Lanning, as Moore served as the No. 2 option behind Dillon Gabriel in the 2024 season. Having experience in the situation may provide Lanning with the right words of motivation and encouragement to give to Raiola as he serves in the backup role.

Barring another transfer after this season, Raiola is in line to take over as the starter in 2027. He'll get a chance to lead one of the best programs in the country and boost his draft stock before the 2028 NFL Draft.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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