2018 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

24. D.J. Moore, WR, Carolina Panthers

2018 Stats: 55 receptions, 788 receiving yards, 2 TDs, 172 rushing yards

At the beginning of the season, D.J. Moore appeared to be headed for “bust” territory. He struggled to make his presence felt in the Carolina Panthers offense, amassing only 13 receptions, 191 receiving yards and one touchdown during his first six appearances.

Then, he stepped into a starting role and immediately stepped up his game for the Panthers. During that 10-game stretch, he hauled in 42 passes for 597 receiving yards and another touchdown. Although his failure to consistently find the end zone often was disappointing, there was no denying that Moore was playing a pivotal role in Carolina’s passing game.

Chances are he’s only going to get better as his NFL career matures. He’s already shown significant growth since arriving in Charlotte, progressing from occasional weapon to start his rookie season to one of Cam Newton’s go-to targets. He may not have been as productive as some folks would have liked, but it could have been much worse.

The other thing to consider is that the stats don’t tell the whole story. While Moore didn’t blow us away with his production, the film shows an electric playmaker with the ability to create big yards after the catch. Expect even more excitement from the Maryland product in 2019.

Grade: B