The University of Alabama sends Jordan Battle, DeMarcco Hellams, Brian Branch, and Eli Ricks to the upcoming NFL Draft, but it returns a veteran that will provide leadership for the defensive secondary next season.
Malachi Moore, a native of Trussville, Ala., stated during Allstate Sugar Bowl prep that he’s returning to school for his senior season. As a former four-star in the 2020 recruiting class, Moore exploded onto the scene in his freshman year.
He earned the starting job at nickel, totaling 44 tackles, four tackles for loss, six pass breakups, three interceptions (team-high), and a fumble return for a 28-yard touchdown. Moore won Freshman All-SEC and Freshman All-American honors in assisting the Crimson Tide to a College Football Playoff National Championship.
Injuries limited him in the last two years, but his experience will be critical next fall. Moore has the size, athleticism, coverage skill, and instincts to play nickel, dime, and safety. The 6-foot, 190-pounder may start at nickel or free safety. He possesses the range to track the football, break up passes, help in run support, and pressure quarterbacks in critical situations. Moore’s return gives Nick Saban flexibility in the secondary to get his best players on the field. He also has an opportunity to become a first-round draft pick for 2024 with strong numbers.
Moore will serve as a great mentor for the young players on the back end.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
