Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore has publicly disclosed his struggle with depression and urged Governor Tina Kotek to protect and expand virtual mental health services across the state. In a March 3 letter to Kotek, Moore wrote that “Early in my college career, I found myself struggling deeply: I was depressed,” and credited telehealth services with helping him recover during a difficult period when he was also watching his mother undergo chemotherapy.
Moore’s Platform and Recent Success
Moore’s advocacy comes after a breakout 2025 season that positioned him among the nation’s top quarterbacks. He led Oregon to a College Football Playoff semifinal and was widely projected as a first round pick before deciding to return to Eugene instead of entering the 2026 NFL Draft. That decision gives Moore additional time to focus on off-field advocacy and leadership roles he described in his letter.
Specific Request and Broader Message
According to The Associated Press, Moore specifically urged Kotek to protect and expand virtual mental health services, saying telehealth had been vital to his recovery. Beyond his direct request, Moore challenged teammates and fellow athletes to “lead beyond the field” by using their platforms to support people who feel voiceless. Moore told reporters that “that support saved me” and urged leaders to expand access so others can receive similar help.
State Policy Context
Governor Kotek’s administration has made behavioral health a priority, backing legislation and grants aimed at expanding the workforce and access to care. In February, the governor’s office announced $4 million in behavioral health workforce grants to help recruit and retain providers across the state. According to the governor’s office, these investments are intended to boost culturally responsive care and reach rural communities. Moore’s letter, coming from one of Oregon’s highest-profile college athletes, adds a public voice to ongoing debates over telehealth coverage and behavioral health capacity in the state.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://hoodline.com/2026/03/ducks-star-dante-moore-pleads-with-kotek-to-keep-oregon-s-virtual-therapy-alive/