NFL Draft: Which wide receivers could the Packers draft?
D.J. Moore, Maryland
Moore could end up being a draft-day steal because of his blazing speed and sure hands. He has a very good combination of size and speed that is similar to former Maryland standout, Stefon Diggs.
He is able to separate very well from defenders, something that the current Packers wide receivers lack in.
While he wouldn’t play the outside receiver, Moore could become a very good threat in the slot. Similar to what Randall Cobb is now, except a lot more speed and separation ability.
His 4.42 40-yard dash at the combine would make him tied for first on the Packers with Trevor Davis.
The difference between the two is that Moore has sure hands and can be reliable when given opportunities in the passing game.
Moore has managed to stay healthy too, another issue with the current group of Packers receivers. He started all 12 games for the Terrapins in 2017.
In those 12 games, he had 80 receptions for 1,033 yards and eight touchdowns. He put up these numbers despite inconsistent play at the quarterback position. He was really the only bright spot on an otherwise weak Maryland squad.
One of the many reasons I want DJ Moore to be a Packer. He isn’t explosive out of his breaks, but his footwork in limited space is good enough to freeze corners and gain leverage. He likely scores on this with a better throw. #Packers pic.twitter.com/9unVajcWO4
— Brandon Carwile (@PackerScribe) April 5, 2018
Moore was also a great special teams threat as a returner. The Packers have lacked a consistent return game for years. Moore may be able to bring that to the table too.
The downfall with Moore is his route running. The Packers tend to go with wide receivers who lack speed but are great with the route tree. However, with outstanding receivers above him, Moore wouldn’t need to be an offensive threat right away.
According to WalterFootball.com, Moore is projected to go on day two of the draft, likely in the second round rather than the third.
The Packers may stay away from Moore, as the focus should be the defense for at least the first two rounds, but if he were to slip to round three, which is possible, the Packers should capitalize and take him.