The best ability is availability. Junior cornerback Devin Moore worked his way into a significant role as a true freshman in 2022 but has only appeared in 11 of Florida’s 25 games during that span.
While injuries have kept the Naples, Florida native off the field, he’s performed well when he’s had the opportunity. Across five games in 2023, Moore graded as Florida’s best defensive player, allowing just five receptions for 30 yards on 12 targets, according to Pro Football Focus. Moore also recorded an interception and three pass break ups while posting an NFL passer rating against of 42.4, the lowest on the Gators.
The 6’2.75, 197-pound cornerback spent his offseason focusing on getting healthy so he can prevent further injuries.
“I was definitely at my lowest a few moments between that season, but you know the support I had from my teammates, coaches, training staff, I took a lot of lessons out of it, how to treat my body weight better, it’s all about the things you eat, you know just the little things, all the little things I could do to just prevent any of that stuff from happening,” Moore said during spring camp.
The potential for Moore is through the roof, according to star sophomore wide receiver Tre Wilson.
“I expect him to go first round this year,” Wilson told the media. “I think he’s NFL ready. Every rep I take against him, I look at him as a future NFL player.”
“He’s a go-getter,” Moore added. “He’s not too much on talking or being all loud, but he most definitely a go-getter.”
Moore is expected to start alongside senior cornerback Jason Marshall in 2024, who understands the importance of having No.28 healthy.
“I’m glad to have him back,” Marshall said on Moore. Him being healthy, that’s the good thing. Just having him on the other side, I know I can trust him. He’s going to make plays; I’m going to make plays. Biggest thing is that he’s healthy, and hopefully he stays healthy.”
“He made a significant change in his body, the way he eats,” Marshall added.
Moore is fully healthy and ready to make a significant impact for a Gators’ defense that’s looking to take major strides in 2024 under DB coach Will Harris. Moore has the physical ability along with improved technique, which should result in a stellar season if he can stay healthy. Moore is my leading candidate for breakout player of the year.