Colts: 3 players who aren’t getting enough respect entering 2021

2. Kenny Moore

Kenny Moore has established himself a a crucial member of the Colts’ championship-caliber defense and Indianapolis actually has the Patriots to thank for that, after they cut him as an undrafted free agent during the 2017 preseason, freeing him up to land with Indy.

Pro Football Focus ranked Moore as their No. 1 slot cornerback entering the 2021 season, and rightfully so, given his run of dominance at the position. For context, the 25-year-old has logged a 90.0 run defense grade and 86.3 coverage grade since he was moved to the interior cornerback position on a permanent basis in 2018.

That’s a three-year sample size, folks, and that consistency saw Moore sign a four-year, $30 million extension with the Colts in 2019. At the time, the four-year pro had one year left on his deal, so the fact Indy was proactive in locking him up proves they understand his value.

Kenny Moore is an invaluable member of the Colts’ defense.

Listed at just 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds, Moore plays bigger than his size and has the requisite length and athleticism to make plays on the ball. The Valdosta State product is equally effective regardless of what coverage the Colts are in (man, zone or press) and he’s one of the most dependable tacklers at the cornerback position.

As evidenced by his six career sacks, two of which were recorded last year, Moore is capable of applying presser from the edge, so he impacts the game in ways that don’t involve locking down opposing slot WRs. In 2020, he also finished fourth on the team in tackles (80), and first in both passes defended (13) and interceptions (four).

If there’s anyone on the Colts who deserves more respect, it’s Moore.