Vikings Draft Profile: The Skyy is the Limit For This Prospect
Josh Frey
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In recent weeks, the Minnesota Vikings are being connected to wide receiver prospects because, well, why not? The rationale behind this argument is the fact that Minnesota didn’t need a receiver in 1998, and then they drafted Randy Moss. Of course, it’s unlikely that any of the receivers in this class actually turn into the next Randy Moss. That said, it can’t be overstated that offense runs the NFL at this point in time, and another top target for Kirk Cousins to throw to could absolutely put Minnesota over the top.
That said, what if they don’t want to use their first-round selection on a receiver, or at least, not No. 12? I’ve talked about Christian Watson as an option before, but today, we’re talking about a guy whose limitless potential is right in his name.
Statistics
- 2019 (13 Games): 51 Receptions, 802 yards, 3 TDs
- 2020 (5 Games): 25 Receptions, 388 yards, 3 TDs
- 2021 (12 Games): 95 Receptions, 1252 yards, 10 TDs
Strengths
Skyy Moore burst onto the scene in 2019 with over 800 yards as a redshirt sophomore. His quickness and agility off the line of scrimmage are things that will be desired by many NFL teams out of their slot receiver, but it’s far from the only thing that makes him an intriguing prospect.
Moore has all the tools to be successful slot receiver in the NFL. He has great burst off the line, exploiting anyone who dares try to use press coverage against him. He is not a true speed-burner by any means, but his quick movements and hard cuts on his routes are more than enough to throw defenders off right from the snap.
Finally, and possibly most importantly, Skyy Moore has the competitive juices and big-play potential that could put him above other receivers in this class when it’s all said and done. His hands are strong enough to go up and get balls that are away from his body, even in tight coverage. He also has a great track record of absorbing hits while going through the catch process. The kid may have the measurements that suggest a great receiver, but his mental fortitude and toughness is what makes him special.
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Weaknesses
Despite all the strengths, Moore does display some question marks in terms of how he can actually go as an NFL receiver. First off, he is almost exclusively a player that plays from the slot. He may win a few one-on-one battles, but he thrives as a complementary role where he can take advantage of not being the top focus of the defense.
Western Michigan’s game against Michigan’s defense all but confirms that this needs to be his role. Moore struggled mightily in that game, and it was easily his least productive performance of the season He had just two receptions for 22 yards in that game. Moore never dipped below 40 yards from scrimmage in any other game of the 2021 season.
Finally, though I mentioned his hands as a strength, his lack of length may be a deciding factor as well. Moore is just 5’9, and although he fills out his frame well at 195 pounds and has decent arm length, his catch radius just isn’t the same as other receivers. There will be catches that he simply won’t be able to make that other receivers can.
Skyy Moore’s Fit on the 2022 Minnesota Vikings
If the Vikings were to add a receiver that can contribute to the offense immediately, that player would almost certainly be a slot receiver that can make a big play once or twice per game. They have Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen to eat up the majority of the passing yards, and KJ Osborn is a nice Plan B, but they still need that Y receiver.
The best part about Skyy Moore from a Vikings standpoint is that he could be had in the latter half of the first round or possibly even into the second round. Minnesota could trade down from No. 12, acquire more Day Two picks, and still grab a very solid offensive weapon at, say, pick No. 20. If both Sauce Gardner and Derek Stingley Jr. are off the board, a trade of this type could be in order.
