He can play high, low, and in between. He can pick the ball off through the air, force a fumble in pursuit, and even take on a much bigger runner in a 1v1 open-field situation that saves a touchdown for his squad.
Oh yeah, he’s also wholly willing to mix it up with the big boys in a physical manner, in addition to his fluid on-field movements.
He is versatile New York Jets rookie safety Malachi Moore, whose instincts and overall feel for the game are already popping on the game film.
Cover 3 curl-flat instincts (low)
Under no circumstance should New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and defensive coordinator Steve Wilks feel pressured to insert Malachi Moore into the lineup immediately. Yet, that doesn’t mean they should shy away from his participation.
The Jets shouldn’t feel too antsy if/when calling on the Alabama product’s number if/when needed, and it boils down to his NFL-ready instincts.
The following play features Moore’s ability to help shut down the most dangerous sandlot route while remaining true to his responsibility.
Playing the curl-to-flat area in a Cover 3, Moore understands his first duty: Make sure Kyle McCord cannot hit the quick out on his side, towards the sideline. While in a ball-you-man-type spot (via the out-breaker), Moore’s vision on the backfield allows him to snuff out a potential shallow cross.
The fact that he gains depth in sort of a free situation—to help take out the sandlot-type over route—demonstrates an excellent feel while playing in zone coverage down low.
Breaking Down Brandon Stephens’ Impressive Pass Breakup vs. Giants
Cover 3 middle-third discipline (high)
Another first-and-10 situation yields a positive result for Malachi Moore. This time, it’s his discipline that rewards him with an interception.
Former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kyle McCord had no business targeting the vertical route here. The play-action does nothing, yet the over route was open.
Fortunately for the Jets defense, McCord forces one to the iso side, where Moore is perfectly placed on top. Take note of the bracketed coverage with Moore high and inside, whereas cornerback Qwan’tez Stiggers is trailing and outside.
Solo-high open-field tackling (inside-out, conservative)
One of Malachi Moore’s more remarkable turnarounds from Week 2 was his open-field tackling. At times, the rookie safety played out of control. He guessed and did the wrong thing for the teammate next to him.
That’s not to say it was all bad against the New York Jets in the MetLife Bowl, but he, along with the rest of the second-team defense, left a lot to be desired (as evidenced by Aaron Glenn’s sideline demeanor and postgame words).
Moore was as disciplined as it gets against the Eagles, and this even showed up against the run. The following play featured the solo-high Moore understanding what his team needed from him.
Once the play-side defensive tackle was wiped down the line, Philly worked with a serious hole. Moore’s last-gasp run defense was the only thing standing in the way of a touchdown.
Previously, Moore was in a similar situation, but he launched himself at the ball-carrier, adding a nice thump. In this example, he had no choice but to remain disciplined due to how much open field the runner had at his disposal.
Therefore, Moore appropriately breaks down and plays it conversatively. From an inside-out feel, he waits it out, forcing the running back to make a move—ultimately allowing the turf monster to help the cause.
Full film breakdown (9 plays)
Below is the full Malachi Moore film breakdown—nine plays from the Week 3 preseason game against the Eagles: