If you want another prime example of Iowa football's exceptional development, look no further than Riley Moss.
Moss was a very under-recruited high school prospect before Kirk Ferentz and Iowa swooped in late with an offer. Moss was a gifted athlete, but started playing football late and wasn't entirely sure that he would pursue it in college. He was ranked as only a two-star prospect, but the program turned him into a third-round NFL Draft pick after a stellar career with the Hawkeyes. He worked his way up from a two-star prospect to an irreplaceable star, and he has carried that work ethic into his pro career.
Moss isn't planning to limit his aggressiveness any time soon
Moss has always excelled in press coverage and is extremely aggressive with opposing receivers. He struggled at times last season when star corner Pat Surtain returned to the lineup because teams picked on him more in the passing game. Even though he was extremely effective, leading the league in targets (118) and passes defended (19), he wasn't satisfied with the penalties he racked up. Moss has never been a player who rests on his laurels, and he is proving that through the offseason heading into his fourth season with the Broncos.
Moss was hit with multiple defensive pass interferences last season, and even though he was one of the best defensive backs in the league, he wants to be even better. He has never lacked confidence and has stepped up his game this summer during training camp and workouts. Moss has put a clear focus on defending passes while maintaining his aggressiveness, something his coaches have encouraged. Moss had a similar trajectory with the Hawkeyes, going from a player who struggled after being thrust into action as a freshman to Iowa's clear CB1, and that is exactly what fans want to see.
His aggressiveness is one of his best qualities, and while he might get beat every so often, he is in the right spot more often than not, and that is exactly what Denver needs. The Broncos have traditionally been a very solid defensive unit, but Moss acknowledged he wants to be better so he can help the unit take the next step. Despite ranking in the top five in most statistical categories, they failed to create takeaways and finished No. 26 in the league last season. If Moss elevates his game, that can only be a good thing for the Broncos' defense.
Moss' hard work and commitment to improving have been on full display at the Broncos' training camp, and it is starting to pay dividends. He has already broken up multiple passes without being flagged, which confirms his hard work is paying off. He might fly under the radar thanks to Surtain, but teams better be ready for a more aggressive Moss next season if they decide to continue regularly throwing the ball his way. It wouldn't be a surprise if Moss leads the team in interceptions as he continues pushing his development forward.
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