Zack Moss Despite not being projected to lead the NFL in rushing yards this season, new Cincinnati Bengals running back Zack Moss is poised to make a significant impact. NFL.com analyst Maurice Jones-Drew has placed Moss at 31st out of 32 potential starting running backs in his rankings. However, this assessment doesn’t fully capture the value Moss brings to a team.
In his fourth NFL season, Moss, a former standout at the University of Utah, demonstrated his capabilities while playing for the Indianapolis Colts last year. He accumulated 794 rushing yards on 183 attempts, averaging 4.3 yards per carry, and scored five touchdowns. Additionally, Moss was a reliable target in the passing game, catching 27 passes for 192 yards and adding two more touchdowns. Notably, he managed to go the entire season without committing a fumble, highlighting his dependability and ball security.
In a recent interview with Bengals.com, Moss emphasized that his focus is on team success rather than individual statistics. “I’ve never been one to focus on personal goals or stats,” Moss stated. “I believe that personal achievements come as a result of the team’s success. My priority is to contribute consistently in my role and help the team win. We have a lot of talent on offense, and I’m here to do my job at a high level. The most important thing is always winning.
Moss’s career trajectory so far reflects a pattern of being part of successful teams. Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Moss was part of a squad that achieved impressive records of 13-3, 11-6, and 13-3 during his three seasons with the team. However, his tenure with the Indianapolis Colts, which began midway through the 2022 season, marked his first experience with a losing record, as the Colts struggled to a 4-12-1 finish. Despite this, the Colts improved to a 9-8 record the following year, narrowly missing the playoffs.
The Cincinnati Bengals secured Moss through free agency this year, largely due to the endorsement of running backs coach Justin Hill. Hill praised Moss not only for his on-field performance but also for his positive influence off the field. “Going into his fifth year in the league, he’s made a significant impact on those around him,” Hill remarked. “I’ve heard from coaches who consider him one of their favorites. He’s a professional, experienced with various defensive looks and fronts, and understands our objectives in the running game.”
Bengals center Ted Karras, who has won two Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots, also sees Moss as a key asset. Karras likened Moss to the Patriots’ running backs he has played with, such as James White and LeGarrette Blount. While White was known for his exceptional receiving skills and Blount for his occasional 1,000-yard seasons, both were effective in their roles and excelled in pass protection.
Karras noted that Moss brings a similar style to the Bengals’ offense. “Zack is our ‘Steady Eddie,’” Karras said. “He complements Chase Brown, who is more of a home-run hitter. Moss’s playing style aligns perfectly with the running game we employ. He excels in pass protection, which is crucial for our offense, as we rely heavily on Joe Burrow and our passing game.”
Moss’s ability to contribute on all three downs is another strength highlighted by Hill. “He’s played effectively on first, second, and third downs, and has been reliable in both running and pass protection,” Hill explained. “Moss is an instinctive runner with a talent for turning limited opportunities into valuable plays. His proficiency in blocking is a significant asset for our offense.”
Overall, Zack Moss’s addition to the Cincinnati Bengals brings a blend of reliability, experience, and versatility. While he may not be the highest-ranked running back in the league, his ability to perform across different facets of the game makes him a valuable component of the Bengals’ offensive strategy. With his skills and professional demeanor, Moss is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success in the upcoming season.