Derrick Moore Scouting Report: Michigan Edge Rusher Brings Versatility, Upside to NFL Draft
Position: Defensive End
School: Michigan (Big Ten)
Height/Weight: 6’3”, 254 lbs
College Experience: Senior
Projected Draft Range: 2nd-3rd Round
Pro Comparison: Derick Hall
Derrick Moore is the latest in a growing line of Michigan pass rushers with NFL dreams-and the résumé to back them up. Following in the footsteps of players like Kwity Paye, Aidan Hutchinson, and Josaiah Stewart, Moore brings a mix of athleticism, production, and positional versatility that makes him one of the more intriguing edge prospects in this year’s draft class.
A Baltimore native, Moore made his name at St. Frances Academy, one of the top high school football programs in the country.
Despite losing his junior season to the pandemic, Moore made up for lost time as a senior, racking up 55 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. That dominant campaign earned him Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year honors and MVP of the Under Armour All-American Bowl.
A four-star recruit with offers from blue-blood programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State, Moore ultimately chose Michigan-and the Wolverines were glad he did.
College Career: Steady Growth, Strong Finish
Moore wasted no time making an impact in Ann Arbor. As a true freshman, he saw action in all 14 games, flashing the kind of raw tools that had scouts circling his name early. His sophomore season saw a bigger role, and by the time Michigan was making its run to a national championship, Moore had earned All-Big Ten honorable mention-an accolade he would repeat as a junior.
But it was his senior year that truly showcased his growth. Moore led the Wolverines in both sacks and tackles for loss, earning First-Team All-Big Ten honors and cementing his status as one of the top edge defenders in the conference. He became a reliable force off the edge, showing improved technique, better play recognition, and a motor that didn’t quit.
Strengths
- Explosive First Step: Moore gets off the line with urgency, often beating tackles with his initial burst. That quickness sets the tone for everything he does as a pass rusher.
- Speed-to-Power Conversion: He’s not just fast-he knows how to turn that speed into leverage.
Moore can collapse the pocket with a strong bull rush, keeping offensive linemen on their heels.
- Wide Alignment Experience: Michigan often lined him up in wide-9 or other outside techniques, giving him room to work and test his athleticism against tackles. That’s valuable experience for a player who may be asked to rush from various angles in the pros.
- High Motor, Consistent Effort: Moore plays through the whistle. Whether chasing down a play from the backside or battling through a double team, he brings consistent energy on every snap.
Areas for Development
- Coverage Skills: Moore didn’t drop into coverage much at Michigan, so if he’s asked to play 3-4 outside linebacker at the next level, he’ll need to show he can handle space and zone responsibilities.
- Run Game Strength: While he flashes power, Moore can get washed out by stronger offensive linemen in the run game. Improving his anchor and hand placement will be key to becoming a three-down player.
- Refining Pass Rush Plan: He wins with athleticism and effort, but developing more consistent counter moves and hand technique will help him beat NFL-caliber tackles more regularly.
Fit with the Washington Commanders
With the Commanders bringing in Daronte Jones as their new defensive coordinator, don’t be surprised if Washington starts leaning more into 3-4 looks. That shift would mean a need for true outside linebackers who can rush, drop, and play in space-something the current roster isn’t fully built for. Players like Dorance Armstrong and Javontae Jean-Baptiste are more natural 4-3 ends, and while they might adapt, a true 3-4 OLB type would add flexibility.
Enter Derrick Moore.
While he played primarily as a 4-3 defensive end at Michigan, Moore’s traits translate well to a stand-up edge role in a 3-4. His ability to rush from wide alignments, win with speed, and convert that speed into power mirrors what teams look for in hybrid edge defenders. He’ll need to prove he can handle coverage responsibilities and hold up against the run at the NFL level, but the foundation is there.
If Washington is serious about mixing up its defensive fronts and getting more athletic on the edge, Moore makes a lot of sense. He’s a scheme-versatile player who could contribute early in pass-rush packages while developing into a more complete defender.
After a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, his stock is climbing. The real question is whether he’ll still be on the board when Washington is on the clock in the third round.
If he is, they’d be wise to give him a long look. Moore has the tools, production, and upside to be a valuable piece in a retooled Commanders defense.