New York Jets Select Alabama Safety Malachi Moore in 2025 NFL Draft

In a strategic move during the 2025 NFL Draft, the New York Jets traded their 145th and 207th overall picks to the Philadelphia Eagles, advancing to the 130th overall pick in the fourth round to select safety Malachi Moore from the University of Alabama. This selection underscores the Jets’ commitment to enhancing their secondary and adding depth to their defensive backfield.

Early Life and High School Career

Malachi Moore hails from Trussville, Alabama, where he attended Hewitt-Trussville High School. During his senior year, Moore recorded 83 tackles and four interceptions, showcasing his defensive prowess and earning him a spot in the prestigious All-American Bowl. His high school performance positioned him as one of the top safety prospects in the nation, leading to his commitment to Alabama.

College Career at Alabama

Moore’s collegiate journey began as a true freshman at Alabama, where he made an immediate impact by starting in the season opener—a rare feat for a freshman under head coach Nick Saban. Over his career, Moore accumulated 214 tackles, 31 pass deflections, 7 interceptions, and 2.5 sacks, demonstrating his versatility and playmaking ability. He served as a team captain in both 2023 and 2024, reflecting his leadership qualities and commitment to the team.

Throughout his tenure at Alabama, Moore showcased his adaptability by playing various roles in the secondary, including free safety, strong safety, and nickel cornerback. His experience in Saban’s complex defensive schemes honed his football IQ and ability to read offenses, making him a valuable asset in multiple defensive alignments.

Scouting Report

Strengths:

• Versatility: Moore’s ability to play multiple positions in the secondary, including free safety, strong safety, and nickel cornerback, adds significant value to his profile. His adaptability allows him to contribute in various defensive schemes and alignments.
• Football IQ: Demonstrates exceptional understanding of the game, particularly in zone coverage, where he reads the quarterback’s eyes and anticipates throws effectively. His ability to process information quickly enables him to make timely plays on the ball.
• Tackling: Reliable open-field tackler who takes proper angles to bring down ball carriers. While he may not deliver knockout hits, his sound technique ensures minimal yardage after contact.

Weaknesses:

• Lateral Quickness: Occasionally struggles with quick changes of direction, which can be exploited by agile slot receivers. Improving his lateral agility would enhance his effectiveness in man coverage situations.
• Physicality: While a competent tackler, Moore’s physicality in run support is sometimes questioned. Enhancing his strength and ability to shed blockers would improve his performance against the run.
• Injury History: Moore has dealt with various injuries throughout his career, including a head injury in 2024. Teams will need to monitor his medical history to assess potential durability concerns at the next level.

Fit with the New York Jets

The Jets’ selection of Moore addresses a pressing need in their secondary. With a relatively young and developing defensive backfield, Moore’s experience and leadership qualities provide an immediate boost. His versatility allows the coaching staff to utilize him in multiple roles, whether as a deep safety or in the slot, depending on the defensive scheme.

Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich can leverage Moore’s football intelligence to implement complex coverage schemes, utilizing his ability to read offenses and anticipate plays. Additionally, Moore’s experience in special teams adds value, providing depth and flexibility to the roster.

Conclusion

Malachi Moore’s selection by the New York Jets in the 2025 NFL Draft represents a strategic move to bolster the team’s secondary with a versatile and intelligent defender. His adaptability, football IQ, and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to the Jets’ defense. As he transitions to the NFL, Moore’s development under the guidance of the Jets’ coaching staff will be crucial in maximizing his potential and contributing to the team’s success.