CINCINNATI — From Fan to Foe
Back when Joe Flacco led the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory after the 2012 season, Malachi Moore was just an 11-year-old quarterback. Fast forward to now, and Moore finds himself on the field, trying to intercept Flacco’s passes.
Moore, who was drafted in the fourth round this spring, stepped into the Jets’ starting safety position just two weeks ago. He’s performed well enough that it’s almost surreal for him to now face off against one of the players he grew up idolizing.
“It’s wild,” Moore shared. “I was just a kid back then, playing Little League and watching Flacco’s highlights. It feels amazing, and kind of surreal, to actually play against him after all these years.”
At 24, Moore has transitioned effectively from Alabama football to the NFL. His contributions have significantly strengthened a Jets defense that had been struggling early in the season.
“I believe things are clicking,” he said. “With more practice, I feel increasingly at ease, and the game is slowing down for me.”
Looking ahead, Moore will play a crucial role in the Jets’ strategy against Bengals star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
“Those guys can make big plays,” Moore acknowledged. “They’re trusted to either catch passes under pressure or find space to create opportunities. They’re definitely integral to their offense.”
Jets coach Aaron Glenn has taken note of Moore’s early impact in his career.
“We saw something special in Malachi during the draft,” Glenn mentioned. “He has versatility—he can cover as a safety or a nickel. He reminds me of Brian Branch, who had similar traits. The plays he’s making, including that crucial one against the deep ball, show his potential. We’re really proud of his progress.”
In other news, the Jets have placed linebacker Quincy Williams on injured reserve for Sunday’s game. Also, wide receiver Josh Reynolds and linebacker Cam Jones are on IR, both sidelined for at least four games.
The team did, however, add wide receiver Brandon Smith to the active roster and promoted quarterback Brady Cook and defensive lineman Peyton Page from the practice squad. Additionally, guard John Simpson received an $11,593 fine for a face mask penalty during the game against the Panthers.
