Sports

College football: Best returning players that will skip the 2026 NFL draft

January 29, 2026

Story byAngel Atienza-RomeroThu, January 29, 2026 at 8:56 AM UTC·5 min readEvery offseason, a handful of elite college football players make the surprising decision to return to school instead of entering the NFL Draft. These returning stars instantly reshape the competitive landscape, giving their programs proven production, leadership, and high-end talent for another season. The best returners who skipped the 2026 NFL Draft aren’t just good players — they’re impact performers expected to drive conference races and national title conversations. Dante Moore — Oregon (QB)Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) throws a pass during the fourth quarter the 2025 Peach Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

College football: Best returning players that will skip the 2026 NFL draft

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Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn ImagesMoore is considered one of the most naturally gifted passers in college football, combining high-end arm talent with improved decision-making and pocket composure.
His return gives Oregon a quarterback with pro-level tools and big-game upside.
Evaluators see him as a difference-maker because he can stretch defenses vertically while also operating efficiently in structured concepts — a rare combo at the college level. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDarian Mensah — Miami (QB)Duke Blue Devils quarterback Darian Mensah (10) celebrates after the Blue Devils score a touchdown in overtime during the ACC Championship game at Bank of America Stadium.
Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn ImagesMensah brings explosive athleticism and dual-threat stress to defenses.
His development curve has been steep, and coaches value how quickly he processes RPO-heavy looks.

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College football: Best returning players that will skip the 2026 NFL draft

This quick summary is automatically generated using AI based on reports from multiple news sources. The content has not been reviewed or verified by humans. For complete details, accuracy, and context, please refer to the original published articles.

College football: Best returning players that will skip the 2026 NFL draft

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