The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL Building the Beast: Did they stay or did they go now?
Jan 14, 2026
As the NFL Draft looms, the hosts dive into key player decisions, notably Oregon's Dante Moore, who's weighing his options between the draft and staying in college. They evaluate intriguing prospects like Ty Simpson and Monroe Freeling while discussing the impact of NIL on players' choices. The conversation shifts to the exciting CFP National Championship matchup between Indiana and Miami, emphasizing team strategies and standout players. Expect insights on emerging talents and the evolving landscape of college football as teams prepare for the future!
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Episode notes
Dante Moore's Short-Term vs Long-Term Choice
- Dante Moore faces a true short-term vs long-term decision: enter as a likely top pick or return to school for development and better future value.
- NIL changes the calculus because returning can now still pay handsomely while improving draft stock.
Weigh Priorities Before Declaring
- Evaluate priorities before declaring: decide if immediate draft money or another year of development matters more to career trajectory.
- Consider how team fit, coaching, and NIL offers affect both short- and long-term outcomes.
Quarterback Youth vs NFL Valuation
- NFL teams still value limited-start quarterbacks highly if their floor feels safe, which could push Dante Moore top-three despite youth concerns.
- But returning to Oregon offers development, continuity, and potential NIL pay that reduces the urgency to jump.