D.J. Moore, Maryland: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Maryland’s D.J. Moore is an explosive wide receiver prospect who flashes the ability to be a difference maker at the next level.
D.J. Moore features average to slightly below-average size for an NFL wide receiver. His ability to make an impact at the next level rests on his quickness. Moore has a strong burst and the quick-twitch ability needed to quickly get into his route.
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He is a balanced athlete capable of making clean cuts. This balance helps him run solid routes and create separation. Moore also flashes the speed needed to take the top off a defense. However, he is more of a run underneath catcher rather than someone that will high-point the ball.
Maryland made a point to get the ball into Moore’s hands. He is very shifty with the ball and does a good job pick up yards after the catch. His ability to create in space also shows up in the return game.
Moore has solid hands, but tends to let the ball into his body too often. He needs to do a better job plucking the ball away from his frame. This really jumps out when he works the sideline. There’s plenty of passes that were nearly intercepted because Moore didn’t pluck the ball nor did he work back to the quarterback.
The body catching isn’t a major concern as Moore has shown the ability to attack the ball and use his hands. He just needs to be more consistent in order to maximize his potential.
Moore looks like an ideal fit for a slot receiver who can work on the outside from time to time. However, his lack of height and struggles high-pointing the ball makes him a poor contested catch receiver. He will be more effective working crossing routes and making catches in space.
Overall, this is a solid prospect who has some big-play potential. He may need to land in a situation that has strong quarterback play. Moore isn’t the type who will routinely haul in poorly thrown balls.