(Editor's Note: While the start of the 2017 NFL Draft isn't until April 26, it's never too early to profile some of the key participants. The staff of DallasCowboys.com intends to preview the landscape of the draft's top prospect, with an emphasis on possible Cowboys draft picks – from the first round to the last. Today's featured player is Maryland's D.J. Moore.)
- Name: D.J. Moore
- Position: Wide Receiver
- College:Maryland
- Height/Weight:6-0 / 210
- Honors: Named Big Ten Richter-Howard Wide Receiver of the Year.
- Key Stat:While he played for eight different starting quarterbacks in his three seasons at Maryland, Moore stayed consistent, starting 35 straight games and setting a school record in 2017 with 80 receptions.
Where He's Projected:
At this point, it seems rather certain Moore has elevated himself into a first-round pick. There are always weird things that happen on Draft Day and it's possible Moore slides down to the top of the second. But the Cowboys should have the option of taking Moore at No. 19 if they choose. Some teams might have him as its No. 1 receiver, right there with Alabama's Calvin Ridley and perhaps SMU's Courtland Sutton.
How He Helps The Cowboys:
Moore is a dynamic player that seemingly can be an all-around receiver in terms of a possession-player, as well as stretching the field. He caught 80 passes last year in 12 games. The fact that he played with so many quarterbacks in his career suggests he can still be QB-friendly to whoever is running the show. He knows how to run routes and separate and uses his strength to his advantage. The Cowboys need some long-term help at this position and a player like Moore could provide that.
- Smooth route-runner.
- Catches well. Will come back to the ball. Can track when it's over his head.
- Can make the contested catch. Can adjust to the ball. Big catch radius.
- Will bounce off tacklers.
- Will go get the ball. Takes his routes inside. Can run though tackles.
- Quickness in the route. Plays with a burst.
- Has had great success with different quarterbacks and coaches. Doesn't have the idea height but makes it work.
- Plays much bigger than his size. Not for everyone but no question that his ability is special.
