The Indianapolis Colts have locked down star cornerback Kenny Moore II with a historic three-year, $30 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid nickelback in NFL history. This move solidifies the Colts’ defense and signals their commitment to contending in the AFC South.
Moore II is coming off a stellar 2023 season, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability. He started all 16 games, amassing 93 tackles, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, and six passes defended. His impact was further highlighted by two defensive touchdowns in a single game, a testament to his game-changing potential.
The 28-year-old Valdosta State alum, initially undrafted in 2017, has consistently exceeded expectations throughout his career with the Colts. In his rookie season, Moore II made an immediate impact, appearing in all 16 games and recording 38 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and five passes defended.
His role expanded significantly in his second season, transitioning to a full-time starter. Moore II registered 77 tackles, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, a forced fumble, and 11 passes defended, establishing himself as a key component of the Colts’ defense.
Since then, he has been a cornerstone of the Indianapolis secondary. In 2021, Moore II earned Pro Bowl honors after a remarkable season with 102 tackles, a sack, four interceptions, a forced fumble, and 13 passes defended.
While injuries limited him to 12 games in 2022, Moore II bounced back with a vengeance in 2023, proving his resilience and value to the team. His consistent performance and leadership on the field made him a priority for the Colts this offseason.
The Colts, armed with ample cap space, recognized the importance of retaining Moore II. With their defense ranking 24th in the league in 2023, bolstering their secondary was crucial. This significant investment in Moore II addresses a critical need and strengthens the Colts’ defensive unit.
This move also sets a new benchmark for nickelback compensation in the NFL, reflecting the evolving role and importance of the position in modern defenses. Moore II’s exceptional coverage skills, tackling ability, and knack for creating turnovers have made him one of the league’s premier nickelbacks.
The Colts’ decision to secure Moore II long-term demonstrates their commitment to building a competitive team. While the re-signing of Moore II is a significant step, the Colts will likely continue to explore options to further improve their roster throughout the offseason. Following a 9-8 season and missing the playoffs, the Colts are determined to return to contention in 2024.
This contract extension not only rewards Moore II for his outstanding performance but also sends a clear message to the rest of the league: the Indianapolis Colts are serious about competing for a championship. The team’s future success hinges on the continued development of young talent and strategic acquisitions in the upcoming seasons.
