Malachi Moore enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most versatile and experienced defensive backs in college football. A product of Alabama’s elite defensive program under Nick Saban, Moore has showcased his ability to play multiple roles in the secondary, including free safety, strong safety, and nickel cornerback, and it did not change in year one of Kalen DeBoer.
Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 198 pounds, Moore combines football intelligence with technical proficiency, making him a valuable asset for NFL teams seeking a multi-faceted defender.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Malachi Moore, Alabama
College Career
Moore made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2020, earning Second-Team All-SEC honors and Freshman All-American recognition. Over his four-year career at Alabama, he developed into a leader on defense, serving as a team captain in 2023. His senior season saw him record 52 tackles (five for loss), one interception, and five pass breakups. Known for his adaptability, Moore thrived in Alabama’s complex defensive schemes, which required him to excel in both coverage and run support.
Strengths
1. Versatility: Moore has played multiple positions in the secondary, offering scheme flexibility to NFL defenses. He is effective as a deep safety, slot cornerback, or hybrid defender.
2. Football IQ: His ability to diagnose plays quickly and take proper angles makes him a reliable presence against both the run and pass.
3. Ball Skills: Moore has demonstrated excellent instincts in zone coverage, tracking passes effectively and making timely plays on the ball.
4. Tackling Ability: A secure tackler in open-field situations, Moore uses sound technique to bring down larger ball carriers with minimal extra yardage.
5. Leadership: As a team captain at Alabama, Moore’s leadership qualities are evident both on and off the field.
6. Special Teams Value: His experience on special teams adds another layer of utility for NFL rosters.
Weaknesses
1. Lacks Elite Speed: With an estimated 40-yard dash time of 4.50 seconds, Moore may struggle to keep up with faster NFL receivers in man-to-man coverage.
2. Limited Physicality: His slightly undersized frame (198 pounds) can make it difficult for him to shed blocks or deliver punishing hits in the box.
3. Injury History: A head injury sustained during the 2024 season raises durability concerns at the next level.
4. Jack-of-All-Trades Profile: While his versatility is an asset, it could also limit him to a rotational role rather than establishing himself as a full-time starter.
Player Comparison
Moore’s skill set closely resembles that of former New England Patriots safety Devin McCourty. Like McCourty, Moore thrives as a deep safety with strong instincts and versatility but lacks elite physical traits.
Best Scheme Fit
Moore is best suited for defenses that employ complex zone schemes or utilize safeties in hybrid roles. Teams that value versatility and require defensive backs to cover slot receivers or contribute in sub-packages will maximize his potential.
Draft Projection
Moore is projected as a second-to-third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While he may not possess the elite athleticism typically associated with first-round safeties, his football intelligence, versatility, and leadership make him an intriguing mid-round option.
Final Assessment
Malachi Moore’s ability to adapt to various roles within the secondary makes him one of the most versatile defensive backs in this draft class. Though he lacks elite speed and physicality, his instincts and technical skills allow him to compensate effectively. With proper coaching and development at the next level, Moore has the potential to become a reliable starter or key rotational player in an NFL secondary.
Teams looking for a high-IQ defender who can contribute immediately on special teams while developing into a multi-role player will find great value in selecting Malachi Moore during the middle rounds of the draft.
