DeAndre Moore Jr., the Texas Longhorns’ dynamic wide receiver, stunned fans on Monday when he announced that he will stay in college but transfer to another program. The revelation came after earlier speculation that he might leave the program entirely for the 2026 season or enter the NFL draft. Moore’s decision was posted on social media, sparking immediate discussion among teammates, coaches and followers about his future in college football.
The Decision
Moore’s post clarified that he will not be entering the transfer portal or declaring for the draft, but instead will continue his collegiate career at another university. The announcement was made during the off-season, a time when many players are deciding their next steps. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian had earlier noted on December 19 that the Longhorns were down 20 scholarship players ahead of the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, a loss attributed to transfers and opt-outs.
Social Media Post
On Monday, Moore posted a photo of himself on Instagram, captioned with the Bible verse Romans 12:2. The verse reads, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” The inclusion of the scripture highlighted Moore’s personal convictions and offered a glimpse into the mindset guiding his decision to remain in college.
Season Statistics
During his most recent season, Moore caught 38 passes for 532 yards and scored four touchdowns. Those numbers reflect his role as a reliable target in the Longhorns’ passing attack. He averaged 14 yards per reception, a figure that places him among the team’s most productive receivers. The statistics underscore his contribution to the offense and hint at the potential impact he could have at a new program.
Career Totals
Across his three years at Texas, Moore accumulated 988 receiving yards on 77 catches, translating to 11 touchdowns. The cumulative totals highlight a steady progression and consistency in his performance. He has been a key player in the offense, contributing both as a receiver and a return specialist. These career numbers demonstrate his value to the program and suggest why other schools might be interested in adding him to their roster.
Game Highlights
Moore’s standout games included a season-high 79 receiving yards on five catches against Sam Houston and a season-high six catches against Mississippi State. In the matchup against Arkansas, he capitalized on every opportunity, catching three passes for 74 yards and scoring on all three receptions. These performances showcased his ability to perform under pressure and his knack for making critical plays.
Prior Commitments
Before enrolling at Texas, Moore had verbally committed to both Oklahoma and Louisville. Those earlier commitments indicate that he had options beyond the Longhorns, and the decision to transfer may lead him to one of those programs or another university entirely. The move will allow him to explore different coaching staffs and offensive schemes that could suit his skill set.
Transfer Portal Timing
The transfer portal will officially open on January 2, giving players a window to submit their names and explore new opportunities. Moore’s announcement ahead of that date signals his intention to act quickly once the portal becomes active. The timing aligns with the typical off-season period when many players file for transfers, seeking a fresh start or better fit.
Impact on Texas
Sarkisian’s earlier comment about the Longhorns being down 20 scholarship players ahead of the Citrus Bowl underscores the impact of transfers on the team’s depth chart. Moore’s departure will further thin the receiving corps, forcing the coaching staff to rely on less experienced players or consider recruiting options. The loss of a player with Moore’s production could affect the program’s offensive balance in the coming season.
Return Specialist Role
In addition to his receiving duties, Moore has served as a return specialist for the Longhorns. This dual role has made him a valuable asset, contributing to both offense and special teams. His presence on the field has helped the Longhorns maintain a competitive edge in various game situations and has been a key factor in their overall performance.
Recruiting Implications
The Longhorns’ recruiting class will need to address the gap left by Moore’s departure. The absence of a player who consistently produced 532 yards in a season highlights the need for depth in the receiving corps. It underscores the importance of maintaining a strong roster to sustain competitive performance and ensures the team can adapt to evolving challenges each season.
Transfer Portal Process
With the transfer portal opening on January 2, Moore has a clear timeline to submit his name and negotiate with prospective programs. The decision to remain in college and transfer shows he intends to continue his collegiate career. The next few weeks will reveal which university he chooses and how that move will affect both his career and the Texas program.
Final Thoughts
As the college football landscape evolves, Moore’s choice will be closely watched by fans, coaches, and recruiters alike for the season.
