Great players make great money, even at the college level these days. With more incentive than ever to stick around in the collegiate ranks, thanks to the monstrous NIL deals on the table, some stars are putting their professional careers on hold to accomplish more with their university.
That extends to Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore, who turned down a potential top-five selection in the 2026 NFL Draft to return to Eugene for one more run at a national championship and launch a Heisman campaign. Although Moore noted that his decision to return was rooted in competing and improving his play before heading to the NFL, the money coming in likely made that decision a bit easier.
On3’s new “NIL Valuation” tool is tracking NIL deals, contracts and compensation for all college players across different sports. Moore is among the biggest earners in the country, regardless of sport.
NEW: Top 10 On3 NIL Valuations in College Sports💰https://t.co/UvYa8usnp8pic.twitter.com/G9rXzBKGTq
— On3 (@On3) July 14, 2026
In the On3 NIL 100, Moore ranks fourth with an NIL valuation of $5 million, making him the second-highest earner in college football. Miami quarterback Darian Mensah, who transferred to the Hurricanes from Duke during the offseason, tops the list with an NIL valuation of $6.5 million. Ohio State wideout Jeremiah Smith, who has been considered one of the best players in the sport since his freshman season, falls in line with Moore with a valuation of $5 million.
Also in front of Moore are a pair of college basketball transfers. Kentucky forward Milan Momcilovic, who transferred from Iowa State, and Louisville center Flory Bidunga, a Kansas transfer, both have valuations of $6 million.
Moore had an incredible first season as the starter for the Ducks in 2025, tossing 30 touchdowns and leading Oregon to the College Football Playoff semifinals. As he begins his push for the Heisman Trophy and the top pick in next year’s draft, his play has earned him opportunities off the field as well. Moore has major NIL deals and endorsements with Nike and Beats by Dre, as well as deals with DoorDash, Raising Cane’s, Factor Meals, Facebook, T-Mobile and more. He also appeared on the cover of the EA Sports College Football 27 video game.
With more than 146,000 followers on Instagram, Moore’s brand is only growing as he enters a pivotal season with the Ducks. Moore’s NIL valuation makes him one of the biggest earners in the country in 2026, and if he continues to succeed on the field, the numbers will only continue to rise.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon QB Dante Moore boasts top 5 NIL valuation in college sports
