D.J. Moore could have led the NFL in receiving yards last year if he’d enjoyed even slightly above-average play at quarterback. Given how much he produced despite serious chemistry issues with Teddy Bridgewater, we’re willing to die on that hill and are very-much looking forward to seeing what he can do in Year 4 with Sam Darnold throwing the ball his way.
The Panthers recently picked up Moore’s fifth-year option along with Darnold’s, so they’ll control him at a relatively low cost for another two seasons. As for Moore, he seems to be happy in Carolina. Here’s what he told Alaina Getzenberg at the Charlotte Observer about getting his option exercised.
“I was excited about it. Just another step to something bigger that we’re working towards. . . . I love Carolina. I love being here, I love the team. . . . I would look forward to staying here.”
The option will cost the Panthers a little over $11 million in 2022, an easy bargain for Moore’s skillset, which is still growing.
Since he was drafted, Moore has made great strides as a route runner and he’s maintained his ability to make defenders miss in space. He’s among the league leaders in forced missed tackles per reception and yards after the catch since 2016, according to Pro Football Focus.
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