Saints Scouting: Notre Dame CB Leonard Moore

Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore is emerging as a dream 2027 NFL Draft prospect for the New Orleans Saints. Moore’s NFL-ready frame, man coverage prowess, and athleticism make him a bona fide top-10 pick. If the season doesn’t turn around, then he will be a worthy consolation for the Saints in April.

Moore, the six-foot-two, 197-pound junior, has spent three years at Notre Dame. He was a consensus All-American in 2025 and is trending toward the same accolade this year. He hasn't recorded an interception through five games, but he’s allowed only 65 yards in coverage, per PFF, and already has three pass breakups.

Moore is the best man coverage cornerback in college football. His technique is immaculate, particularly in press coverage. He’s physical, sticking with his matchup, and uses his quick footwork to stay balanced. He’s a smooth mover with fluid hips. The Texas native has the speed to stay with shifty receivers.

If he is targeted, then Moore’s receiver-esc ball skills are on display. He has seven interceptions and a staggering 22 pass breakups in his career. He expertly highpoints the ball and switches positions, forcing the receiver to play defense or else give up a turnover.

Beyond this, Moore is comfortable in zone coverage. His superb instincts let him survey the quarterback’s eyes before breaking on the ball. He passes off coverage well and rarely allows a reception in his area.

Moore’s reached the level where quarterbacks rarely target him. They’ve attempted only 13 passes to him (PFF), only six of them completed. He’s capable of eliminating a receiver from the game plan, regardless of the coverage scheme.

To top it off, Moore’s an impactful run defender. He needs to clean up his 20% missed tackle rate in 2026, but that’s teachable. What isn’t is his willingness to fire downhill to stop the ball carrier. He can shed blocks and navigate traffic expertly.

The Saints desperately need a cornerback with these traits.

Kool-Aid McKinstry has flashed potential, but he’s too inconsistent to be a number one cornerback. That could change in 2026, but that’s where things stand. Quincy Riley and Martin Emerson are both serviceable, but haven’t shown anything else. As a result, the Saints must bolster the unit next offseason.

If nothing changes, the Saints will be in a position to draft Leonard Moore. Although that would be a disheartening season, it would give them a defensive cornerstone. It’s still too early for anything definitive, but expect to hear Moore’s name floating around New Orleans in April.