Derrick Moore NFL Draft Scouting Report

Michigan's Derrick Moore is one of the more underrated edge defender prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, with a well-rounded skill set that should translate to early success at the next level. His experience against top competition should help Moore make a smooth transition to the pro game, but a loaded class at his position could make him a potential value pick on Day 2.

Here's everything NFL fans need to know about Moore heading into this year's draft:

Derrick Moore's Vitals

Height: 6-3

Weight: 260

Age: 23

Derrick Moore's Strengths

A well-built defender with a solid frame, Moore’s go-to move as a pass rusher is converting speed to power to drive tackles back into the quarterback’s lap, and he executes it extremely well. He has active hands and works hard to keep them free throughout every pass-rushing rep, leaving himself open to both inside and outside tracks to the passer. Tight ends have a tough time blocking him out on the edge in the run game, and his breakout 2025 campaign showed marked improvement in terms of his first-step explosiveness off the ball, as well as his ability to finish with sacks instead of just mere pressures. 

Derrick Moore's Weaknesses

Despite the power and physicality that shows up in his pass rush game, Moore is still a work in progress as a run defender. He has a difficult time setting a strong and consistent edge against more powerful tackles, getting washed out of the play too often, or turned back inside because of an inability to consistently anchor with a wide base. Outside of speed to power and the occasional long-arm that gets him home, Moore doesn’t have a wide range of proven pass-rushing moves or effective counters to challenge opposing blockers with variety when his initial moves get stale.

Final Analysis

Moore broke out with double-digit sacks for the Wolverines last season, and had an impressive showing during Senior Bowl practices. He needs to develop a more varied pass-rushing plan and improve his overall run defense if he wants to be an every-down player at the next level, but at worst, Moore has a bright future as a situational rusher who can make big plays on third downs.

2026 NFL Draft Projection: Day 2 (2nd/3rd Round)