The Jacksonville Jaguars are eyeing some reinforcements along the defensive line, a need that remains even after free agency. As the draft unfolds, they’ve got their sights set on bolstering this area with their second-round pick.
At pick No. 56, the Jaguars snagged Michigan defensive end Derrick Moore. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 260 pounds, Moore is a dynamic addition to their defensive rotation.
He’ll slot in behind Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, who’s in the final year of his rookie contract. Defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile will have the flexibility to deploy all three in various packages, creating a versatile front.
Moore’s journey on the field has been marked by consistent improvement. Over the last three seasons, his production has steadily climbed, culminating in 41 pressures and 11 sacks this past year.
His pass rush win rate ranks him 32nd among defensive ends, a testament to his prowess in getting after the quarterback. And let’s not overlook his solid performance against the run, as highlighted by PFF’s grading system in 2025.
Lance Zierlein from NFL.com offers an insightful breakdown of Moore’s game. He describes Moore as an edge rusher with impressive size and length, particularly effective in pass-rushing scenarios.
While his run defense could use a bit more urgency, Moore excels in bull-rush techniques and finishing plays with solid tackling. If he can maintain intensity across all downs, he’s poised to become a reliable starter capable of generating significant pressure.
With Hines-Allen and Walker anchoring the defensive end positions, the Jaguars are in a strong spot. However, adding Moore into the mix not only boosts their depth but also ramps up the competition. As Walker approaches free agency in 2027, unless an extension is reached, Moore’s presence could be even more crucial in shaping the Jaguars’ defensive future.