2021 NFL Draft: Introducing David Moore, Grambling State’s mauler of an OL prospect

While the skill position players always take the headlines in every NFL draft class, everyone knows football games are won and lost in the trenches.

That’s why all 32 NFL teams will be clamoring to add a blocker like Grambling State’s David Moore come next April.

One of the top offensive line prospects in all of college football, Moore recently spoke exclusively with MCM about how he’s working to improve his game, what it’s like to play at a HBCU, and which offensive linemen he particularly enjoys watching tape on.

JM: How have you managed to stay in shape and keep up with your weight training throughout the pandemic?

DM: It took a lot of self-discipline to do so. You have to be willing to find a way to work no matter what your circumstances are. I had to put the work in. I’m never gonna set myself up for failure. I’m blessed to be in a great position right now. If this is what you want to do with your life, you have to dedicate yourself to the process. I truly believe that. I haven’t let the pandemic impact my work ethic.

JM: I love that. I thought you took a big step forward last season. It was your best season yet. Did you expect to improve your game in the manner that you did?

DM: Yeah, I did. I knew that the work I was putting in would lead to greener pastures. I knew it was gonna pay off. I have to thank God for his continued blessings. He’s given me an opportunity for me to show my abilities at this level. I’m just continuing to work on my craft.

JM: What can you tell me about the scheme Grambling State runs on offense?

DM: We run a lot of zone. We’re mostly a zone team. We have some quick read stuff as well. But I would ultimately say we’re heavy on the zone looks.

JM: I’m curious as to which offensive linemen you enjoy watching? Do you model your game after anybody in particular?

DM: I enjoy watching Quenton Nelson. I’ve watched quite a bit of his tape. I really enjoy watching Shaq Mason as well. I try to watch as much of his tape as I can get my hands on. I pay close attention to the techniques he utilizes so that I can try to implement that into my game. He has great hands.

JM: What’s your favorite part about playing on the interior of the O-line?

DM: I enjoy being able to punish people (laughs). I love serving up pancakes. I enjoy knowing that I could move that person from his spot against his will. That’s something I take great pride in. My team has given me that responsibility and I have to deliver for them.

JM: At this point in time, would you say that you’re more developed as a run blocker or in pass protection?

DM: That’s a tough question. I think I’m quite balanced to be honest with you. I do love playing in pass pro, though. I love pass protection. That’s the honest truth. I feel like skill-set wise though, I’m pretty balanced.

JM: Not only do you play at a HBCU, but I would say that Grambling State is the best HBCU in the nation. You must take great pride in that.

DM: I take a lot of pride in that. Grambling State is such an excellent school to attend. I’m so lucky that I was able to come here. I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’m so blessed. They treat you just like family here. The vibe is just excellent. I love everything about this program.

JM: As you go through the draft process a few months from now, as dominant as Grambling State has been at this level of college football, you’re still going to be labeled as a “small school” guy. How will you respond?

DM: I just have to go out there and show everybody what I’m capable of. That’s all I can do at the end of the day. I know they’re gonna ask about the competition and what not. I hope I get a chance to play at one of the all-star games against “higher competition” so to speak. That would really give me a chance to prove myself on a grander scale. I’ll show them that I can play with anybody.

JM: I love that. I hope you get that opportunity. I’ve really appreciated your time today, David. In closing, what’s next for David Moore?

DM: Shoot, I just hope we get some sort of season. A lot of things are up in the air right now. If we get a chance to play, I’m going to give it my all and play my heart out. That’s the only way I know how to play the game. I’m going to play aggressive and dominate. I’m always going to be a great leader for my teammates.