Patrick Mahomes’ college football lookalike Dylan Raiola makes major move that could have NFL implications
If it walks like a duck, swims like a duck and quacks like a duck, it might just be former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola.
The 20-year-old son of former Detroit Lions center Dominic Raiola announced his decision to transfer to Oregon on Monday after recently entering the transfer portal.
The native Hawaiian has been teased by fans for copying Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ hair style, jersey number and pre-game routines, but Dylan Raiola has pushed back, saying he has genuine admiration for the former NFL MVP.
Raiola was the highest-ranked recruit to sign with Nebraska and started 22 games over two seasons, but broke his leg against Southern California on November 1 and missed the Cornhuskers’ last four games.
Oregon’s quarterback room for 2026 remains unsettled even with the addition of Raiola as Dante Moore decides whether he will enter the NFL draft. It’s also unclear if Raiola’s arrival could move Moore to turn pro.
The Ducks’ starter said Friday after a 56-22 loss to No. 1 Indiana in a College Football Playoff semifinal that he was uncertain on declaring for the draft or returning to Oregon for a final season. Moore went 24-of-39 for 285 yards with an interception and two fumbles against the Hoosiers.
The native Hawaiian has been teased by fans for copying Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ hair style, jersey number and pre-game routines
Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs jumps before a December game
He completed nearly 73 percent of his throws for 3,280 yards, with 28 touchdowns and nine interceptions this season.
Two of Moore’s backups, Austin Novosad and Luke Moga, have entered the transfer portal. Should Moore remain at Oregon, Raiola could redshirt next season before taking over as starter in 2027.
Raiola’s decision to go to Eugene could put in him perfect position to ascend to the NFL in a few years. Aside from Moore, a projected first-round pick, Oregon passers like Justin Herbert (Chargers) and Bo Nix (Broncos) are currently starting in the league, while Dillon Gabriel (Browns) and Marcus Mariota (Commanders) are serving as backups.
Raiola completed 72.4 percent of his passes for 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns in nine games this season. In his freshman year in 2024, he threw for 2,819 yards with 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
He was not the only major talent to transfer Monday.
Colorado left tackle Jordan Seaton announced on social media he was closing the chapter on his time with the Buffaloes. Seaton was a five-star recruit and the anchor of coach Deion Sanders’ offensive line for the past two seasons.
Raiola was the highest-ranked recruit to sign with Nebraska and started 22 games over two seasons, but broke his leg against Southern California on November 1
Dante Moore is expected to be a first-round pick if he does declare for the NFL Draft
‘I never imagined this journey would come to a close in this way, but I am deeply grateful for every moment that led me here,’ Seaton posted on his Instagram account.
Seaton protected quarterback Shedeur Sanders during a 2024 season that saw two-way standout Travis Hunter win the Heisman Trophy. Last season, Seaton allowed one sack and five pressures before missing the final three games due to injury.
In his social media post, Seaton thanked Deion Sanders, the coaching staff and the team.
‘The relationships built and the memories created during my time here will stay with me forever,’ Seaton posted. ‘To my brothers who will be on that field next season, keep grinding, keep believing, and keep rolling. And to the fans of Colorado, thank you for welcoming me with open arms and supporting me every step of the way.
‘This chapter may be closing, but the impact of this experience and the people who helped shape it will stay with me for life.’
