Austin Novosad’s Transfer Impacts Oregon Ducks’ Quarterback Future

The recent decision by backup quarterback Austin Novosad to enter the transfer portal raises significant questions about the future of the Oregon Ducks quarterback position. This announcement comes at a time when the Ducks have not had a starting quarterback complete a full career at the university since Justin Herbert left for the NFL after the 2019 season. With Dante Moore’s status beyond the 2025 season uncertain, Oregon must now navigate an evolving landscape at the quarterback position.

Novosad’s transfer is unlikely to directly influence Moore’s potential decision regarding the NFL Draft. However, it does indicate a shifting dynamic as the Ducks prepare for the 2026 season. If Moore opts to declare for the draft, the likelihood of Oregon seeking its next quarterback from the transfer portal increases.

Historically, the Ducks have seen a series of quarterbacks transfer in and out of the program. After Herbert, Tyler Shough took the reins but left following the 2020 season. Anthony Brown, who began his career at Boston College, started in 2021, followed by Bo Nix, who transferred from Auburn and played two seasons before heading to the NFL. Dillon Gabriel, who previously played at UCF and Oklahoma, also found success at Oregon, leading the team to a Big Ten Conference Championship.

As it stands, Moore is currently in his second year at Oregon and is in his first season as a starter. He initially committed to play for the UCLA Bruins before switching to Oregon during his high school years. The dynamics of the quarterback position in college football have shifted significantly since the introduction of the transfer portal in 2021, leading to speculation that players like Novosad could eventually step into starting roles.

Luke Moga, Brock Thomas, and Akili Smith Jr. are among the names being considered for the 2026 quarterback position, along with incoming four-star recruit Bryson Beaver. Yet, there remains a strong possibility that the next starter will be a transfer, whether it is Moore or another player.

Notably, Sam Leavitt, who played under former Oregon offensive coordinator Kenny Dillingham at Arizona State, has emerged as a potential candidate for the Ducks. Additionally, former Nebraska starter Dylan Raiola and North Texas transfer Drew Mestemaker have also been linked to Oregon.

Critics have pointed out that Oregon, like other programs such as Indiana, has struggled with developing homegrown quarterbacks. Recent success stories in college football have often involved transfers, including Heisman Trophy finalists and top NFL draft picks. Notable examples include Nix, Moore, and Fernando Mendoza, who won the Heisman in 2025, along with Cam Ward, the 2025 No. 1 draft pick, and former Heisman winner Caleb Williams.

Under the leadership of head coach Dan Lanning, Oregon has made strategic acquisitions from the transfer portal, leading to remarkable improvements in quarterback performance. Both Nix and Gabriel have seen significant statistical enhancements since joining the Ducks, with Nix and Gabriel earning spots as Heisman finalists. Currently, Moore is leading the team in a promising postseason run, showcasing the potential of transfer quarterbacks to make an immediate impact.

As the Ducks move forward, the ramifications of Novosad’s transfer and the uncertainty surrounding Moore’s future will play a crucial role in shaping Oregon’s quarterback landscape. The program is at a pivotal point, and its ability to recruit and develop talent will be essential in maintaining its competitive edge in college football.