March 30, 2026, 4:55 p.m. ET
It is never too early to evaluate defensive back depth for the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht has consistently prioritized versatility on the back end, and Todd Bowles’ defensive structure depends on defensive backs who can wear multiple hats. Whether it is rotating into the slot, dropping into deep zones, or stepping into the box to support the run, Tampa Bay values defensive backs who bring flexibility and physicality. While the Buccaneers may not be searching for an immediate starter, adding depth with special teams value and developmental upside remains a priority.
We are working through each position group this cycle. With that in mind, here is our report on SMU defensive back Ahmaad Moses.
InformationSchool: SMUConference: ACCPosition: Defensive BackHeight Weight: 5-9, 199 poundsClass: SeniorAge: 22Hometown: Mansfield, TexasBackground
Moses wrapped up a highly productive collegiate career at SMU, steadily growing into one of the most active defensive playmakers in the ACC. A former three-star recruit, he developed from a rotational contributor into a full-time starter and team captain by his senior season.
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In 2025, Moses started 12 games and totaled 104 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, five interceptions, and multiple impact plays in key moments. His performance against top competition, including a two-interception outing against Miami, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion. He earned All-ACC First Team honors and multiple national defensive player of the week awards during his senior campaign.
His 2024 season also showed strong production, finishing with 73 tackles, three interceptions, six pass breakups, and a forced fumble. Across multiple seasons, Moses consistently demonstrated a nose for the football and the ability to contribute in a variety of roles.
Moses accepted an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl, further solidifying his status as a draftable defensive back with versatility and production.
Notable Stats from 2025932 total snaps556 coverage snaps70.4 overall defensive gradeFive interceptionsFive pass breakups14.3 percent missed tackle rate29 defensive stops
In 2024, Moses posted an 86.3 defensive grade across 552 snaps, highlighting his efficiency in a more limited role before stepping into a full-time workload in 2025.
SkillsVersatile alignment across the slot and boxHigh-volume tackler with downhill aggressionInstinctive playmaker with strong ball productionQuick trigger in run supportPhysical mindset, despite a smaller frameExperience in multiple defensive rolesActive around the football in high-traffic areasFlashes playmaking ability in zone coverage
Moses plays like a tone-setter on the back end. At 5-9 and 199 pounds, he is built compact and physical, showing no hesitation stepping downhill to meet ball carriers. His 100-plus tackle season reflects both his role and his willingness to engage in contact.
In coverage, Moses shows solid awareness in zone concepts. He keeps his eyes on the quarterback, reacts quickly to developing routes, and has proven he can capitalize on mistakes, as seen with his five interceptions in 2025. His ball production across multiple seasons points to natural instincts rather than fluky plays.
He was deployed across multiple alignments at SMU, including slot, box, and deeper safety looks. That versatility will appeal to NFL defenses that prioritize interchangeable defensive backs, especially in sub-packages.
As a run defender, Moses is aggressive and decisive. He fills lanes quickly and can rack up stops near the line of scrimmage. However, that same aggressiveness can lead to missed tackles at times, as reflected in his 14.3 percent missed-tackle rate.
Player Summary
Ahmaad Moses profiles as a versatile defensive back with strong production, positional flexibility, and a clear path to contributing early on special teams. While his size and missed tackle rate may limit his ceiling as a full-time starter, his ability to play multiple roles gives him value as a depth piece in today’s NFL.
In Tampa Bay, Moses would project as a rotational defensive back who can contribute in sub-packages while developing into a reliable option in the slot or box. His tackling production and instincts fit well within Todd Bowles’ aggressive defensive philosophy, especially in roles that require quick decision-making and physical play near the line of scrimmage.
Moses may enter the league as a late Day 3 selection, but his experience, leadership, and consistent playmaking production give him a realistic chance to outperform his draft slot and carve out a long-term role on an NFL roster.