Survivor I - Mewelde Moore Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	REC	RECYD	RECTD	FPT	RANK
2004	65	379	0	27	238	0	61.7	53

Positives - Although Mewelde is not slated as the starting back for the Vikings right now, he clearly has shown that he is capable of moving the ball, catching the ball and doing what’s asked of him. As a rookie last season, Moore was thrust into the starting running back position due to injuries to Michael Bennett and a suspension to Onterrio Smith. He didn’t disappoint, rushing for 92, 109 and 138 yards respectively, not to mention 12, 7 and 5 receptions for 98, 70 and 30 yards. A very Priest-like performance from the rookie was enough for anyone to take notice. This season, Moore looks to be the 2nd back on the depth charts behind Michael Bennett, due to the one-year suspension of Onterrio Smith. If Bennett gets injured, which seems to be an often occurrence, Moore takes over. If Moore’s performance last season is any indication of what he’s capable of this season, he could be a steal middle-round pick.

Negatives - The obvious negative is that, as of right now, Moore is not the starting back in Minnesota. Incumbent running back Michael Bennett is in a contract year and he’ll likely do whatever he can to keep his #1 status. Moore can only benefit greatly if Bennett falters or is injured. Moore has outstanding receiving skills, which will surely be utilized on 3rd down situations, but his real value is if he winds up as the starting back for an extended amount of time.

Draft Strategy - Moore was taken to back up the often injured Michael Bennett. Not only do I like Moore’s talent and skills, but he proved last season that he can do it all from a running back standpoint. He is one of the better receiving backs in the NFL and he’s led by one of the better offensive lines in the NFL. That alone, spells value in my book. So why take Mewelde here, with the 7th pick? The other backs available had big question marks relating to position battles. Taking Moore here gave me peace of mind that I’ll have the Minnesota running game pretty well covered and in the event of an injury, I’ll have the answer waiting on my bench.