Kenny Moore has been a revelation for the Colts, and fans can thank the Patriots.
Kenny Moore wasn’t what you’d call a top draft prospect when he decided to go pro back in 2017. The cornerback out of Valdosta State signed as an undrafted free agent with the New England Patriots, but was among the final cuts before the season began that September.
The Indianapolis Colts wasted no time and claimed Moore off waivers the next day, which was among the first moves of general manager Chris Ballard’s tenure. He joined the team during the 2016 postseason after Indy fired Ryan Grigson. Two and a half years later, Ballard signed Moore to record-breaking four-year contract extension.
With all the flak the Patriots are currently catching for failing to properly evaluate talent, let’s tack this on! Moore’s deal last June made him the highest-paid slot cornerback, but his versatility allows him to play both on the inside and outside, making him yet another weapon on this incredible Colts’ defense.
Kenny Moore's numbers since becoming a starter in 2018:
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) December 15, 2020
— 177 solo tackles
— 10 INTs, including maybe the best one ever
— 5 sacks
— 3 forced fumbles
— 12 TFL
Said @DariusJButler: "Right away, he proved he belonged."
And he's just 25.https://t.co/FE3Jdswn8j
Ballard had the foresight to pay Moore when he did, and the 25-year-old will still be a bargain on the Colts’ payroll in his prime years. He has cap hits between $5.65 million and $7.54 million through 2023, which covers his age-25-28 seasons. Anytime you can make a deal that shows up Bill Belichick, you take it to the bank. It’s why Ballard is arguably the best GM in the sport right now.
Though the Patriots hardly have any cornerback issues of their own, they certainly could’ve used Moore in the slot with Stephon Gilmore and JC Jackson on the outside. And what better place to fly under the radar then New England? Moore’s already an underrated NFL player. With Gilmore and Jackson by his side, he would’ve been a nobody (but in a good way).
Instead, he’s now a star with the Colts, and if you haven’t heard about him yet, we’re sure this interception will put him on the map for you.
KENNY MOORE HOW IN THE WORLD 😱
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 13, 2020
(via @thecheckdown)pic.twitter.com/z3kEGyDCgt
That’s Kenny Moore. He was a gift from the New England Patriots because they’ve failed to draft properly/evaluate incoming talent well for about 5-6 years now. If you see a Patriots fan between now and the end of the month, wish them a Merry Christmas and thank them for their generosity.
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