Panthers get Newton a top weapon in D.J. Moore

The Carolina Panthers have selected wide receiver D.J. Moore out of Maryland with the 24th overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Carolina needed to get Cam Newton a weapon on the outside, with Torrey Smith and Devin Funchess sitting atop the receiver depth chart.

Moore compares to Panthers legend Steve Smith thanks to his outstanding physicality and skills after the catch.

D.J. Moore Bio

Position: WR
School: Maryland
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-0
Weight: 210 lbs

Strengths

• Excels after the catch. Can run through tackles with stiff arms. Uses vision and understanding of space in open field to break off long runs.
• Doesn't think twice to put himself in vulnerable position to make a catch over the middle. Refuses to go down easily. Fights for extra yards.
• Strong hands. Plucks ball out of air naturally, but knows how to use body for contested catches in a crowd.
• Quick in short areas. Wins routes at the line of scrimmage. Could be perfect fit for slot receiver in NFL.

Weaknesses

• Beats cornerbacks off the line, but allows them to close separation during his breaks at the top of routes and struggles with contested catches.
• Can stand to pick up intensity before the ball is in his hands. Easy for defenders to read when he knows ball isn't coming his way.
• Average physical features. Isn't necessarily undersized, but doesn't have above-average height or length. Tough to imagine as WR1 in the NFL.
• Still working to find feel for position after going through several quarterback changes at Maryland.

Athletic testing