NY Jets' latest draft pick likely ends this beloved Day 3 dream

The New York Jets made their second move of Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft by trading up to select Alabama safety Malachi Moore with the 130th overall pick.

After a confusing and controversial selection of Georgia wide receiver Arian Smith earlier in the fourth round, the Moore pick feels much more grounded and has been met with a wave of optimism from Jets fans.

Moore brings real versatility and experience to a Jets secondary that needed more long-term depth at safety. A three-year starter at Alabama, he showcased the football IQ, toughness, and instincts that fit perfectly with what head coach Aaron Glenn is trying to build on defense.

But while Moore is an exciting addition, his arrival likely ends a fan-favorite dream: the chance to draft Clemson safety R.J. Mickens, the son of former Jets cornerback Ray Mickens.

Malachi Moore pick likely ends the NY Jets' R.J. Mickens dream

It would have been a sentimental and nostalgic pick, especially given Glenn’s connection to the Mickens family, but the Jets prioritized value and talent over emotion. In the long run, that is probably the right call.

Moore brings the kind of polish and leadership that teams look for in Day 3 prospects. A two-year team captain at Alabama, Moore started for multiple seasons in Nick Saban’s complex defensive system and also logged nearly 500 career special teams snaps, contributing on kickoff and punt coverage units.

He may not be the most dynamic athlete, but his football IQ, toughness, and versatility make him the type of reliable player coaches love to have on the roster.

In a lot of ways, Moore projects similarly to Mickens. Both are experienced, high-character defensive backs who can wear multiple hats in the secondary despite not having elite physical tools.

Mickens would have been a sentimental pick given his family ties to the Jets, but in terms of skill set and role, Moore checks many of the same boxes, arguably at a higher level. With Moore now in the building, the door is all but closed on the idea of the Jets targeting Mickens later in the draft.

It is also worth noting that Moore took over as Alabama’s “Star” defender, a pivotal hybrid defensive back role in Nick Saban’s scheme, after Brian Branch was drafted by the Detroit Lions.

Branch quickly became one of the Lions' most important defensive players under Glenn in Detroit. It would not be surprising if Glenn sees similar traits in Moore and envisions him playing a key role in the Jets' secondary.

The Jets found a smart, versatile defensive back who fits exactly what they want to build. Even if it comes at the bittersweet cost of a fan-favorite dream, this was a move made with the future in mind.

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