2011 NFL Draft: Will the Chargers Go After Rahim Moore?

The Chargers Should Take the Top Safety in the 2011 NFL Draft

We've already discussed two free safety possibilities for the Chargers today, Cal's Chris Conte, and Clemson's Marcus Gilchrist. Both of those safety prospects have serious flaws as a free safety and they make up for that with their versatility. They are likely third-round selections. And they both, like every other safety prospect, take a back seat on draft boards to UCLA's, Rahim Moore.

Moore is not without his own flaws, which is why in a draft that is considered weak on safety talent Moore is expected to last until the second-round. Here is Joel Welser's, of fftoolbox.com, assessment:

"Moore's stock is holding pretty steady as a second round selection. He was fast and athletic at the NFL combine as everybody expected. The problem remains his inconsistent tackling. That is why many consider him a better corner than safety, but he may have trouble making that switch anyway. Making a switch to corner could take some time and probably more time than an NFL team is willing to take with a second round pick. Moore is still the best free safety in this draft class and should be taken in the second round."

Walter Football agrees that Moore is far from a complete safety:

"Rahim Moore stood out in the 2009 campaign when he intercepted 10 passes and sort of coasted home the following year with only one. Still, that standout season showcased his ability to get his hands on the football which is a key element to the free safety position. He will benefit from being part of a soft crop of safeties, but has to muscle up if he is going to be an elite safety in the pros."

It's pretty evident that Moore needs to work on his tackling, which makes him a risky proposition for a free safety position that is often the last line defense. It certainly does not seem to have teams shying away.

According to Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post five teams have either already visited or scheduled a visit with Moore. Three of those five teams have selections before the Chargers in the second round. While Moore has his holes if the Chargers do not plan on re-signing Eric Weddle they would be wise to get Moore if he is available. They have five picks in the top 89 and they could do worse by spending one of those on the top rated safety on the board, and then having him learn under former defensive MVP Bob Sanders.

For Bleacher Report's full draft coverage of all teams be sure to check out the NFL Draft Center.

Shannon Elizabeth Maggie Gyllenhaal Foxy Brown Ivana Bozilovic Cristina Dumitru