Alabama Football: Malachi Moore’s unconventional trajectory

Alabama Football senior defensive back Malachi Moore returns to campus for what will presumably be his final season. Moore brings with him a multitude of valuable experiences playing in the Crimson Tide secondary, his first three seasons having been something of a roller coaster.

Malachi Moore burst onto the scene as a true freshman in 2020, primarily playing in the nickel. He joined the Tide as a 4-star recruit in the class of 2020 and was able to earn significant snaps in year one.

Moore was one of the most promising young defenders in the country that season, helping lead Alabama football to a national championship and drawing comparisons to guys like Minkah Fitzpatrick.

For the season, he posted 44 tackles and three interceptions while notching nine pass breakups. He also forced a fumble against Tennessee, which he picked up himself and ran in for a touchdown.

Moore demonstrated a distinct nose for the football, and was constantly generating havoc for opposing offenses. Time after time, he forced timely turnovers to get the Alabama defense off the field.

As a sophomore in 2021, Malachi Moore saw his role diminish as he battled injuries and classmate Brian Branch made major strides at the same position. Moore finished the year with 17 tackles and one interception.

In 2022, Moore once again flashed some of the tendencies that made him look like a future star during his freshman season. He was not a regular starter, but was heavily involved in the secondary rotation, especially against pass-happy offenses.

Malachi Moore finished his junior year with 31 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and five pass breakups. He showed proficiency as a blitzer from the secondary, and showed his playmaking instincts by returning a blocked punt for a touchdown on special teams

Moore opted to return for his senior season, a decision that many believe will pay dividends both for Moore himself as well as the Alabama Football program. He returns as the most experienced and longest-tenured member of a secondary that will have a lot of new faces. His versatility will serve the group well, as he is expected to see snaps at star and at safety.

Malachi Moore’s impact as a player could be huge for Alabama Football in 2023, but his presence as a leader could be just as valuable.