Riley Moss was targeted a staggering 103 times in 2025, and somehow only let up 52 receptions. That 51-percent completion rate allowed was one of the best in the entire NFL last season, which is just insane when you think about the pressure he’s been under. For the past two years, this guy has been lined up opposite an All-Pro caliber player like Patrick Surtain II, taking an immense number of targets every single game. Now, in the final year of his rookie contract, the former Iowa standout is a key player for the Broncos again in 2026, but his future with the franchise is far from certain.
Stepping Up in the Secondary
Since being drafted in the third round back in 2023, Moss has really come into his own. His rookie campaign was all about learning the ropes in a reserve role, but for the last two seasons, he’s been a full-time starter across from Surtain. We’re talking 31 starts and over 1,900 defensive snaps in that timeframe! Last year alone, Moss played all 17 games, starting every single one, racking up 80 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 interception, and a league-high 19 passes defended. The Broncos' cornerback rotation is expected to stay exactly the same for 2026, with Moss starting opposite Surtain and Ja’Quan McMillian holding down the nickel spot. This trio is being called the best cornerback group in the NFL, and with numbers like Moss’s 51-percent completion rate allowed, you can see why they're so confident. He only gave up 720 yards and four touchdowns on those 52 receptions last year, which is solid work against that kind of volume.Cleaning Up the Game and Securing the Bag
Despite the stellar play and crazy target numbers, there are definitely a couple of areas where Moss needs to dial it in. Since he was drafted, opposing teams have accepted 17 penalties against him, with too many of those being pass interference calls on third-and-long. Those drive-extending plays absolutely have to be fixed. On top of that, with the sheer number of passes thrown his way, you’d love to see a few more turnovers. He’s only managed one interception over the last two years. Imagine how many game-changing plays he could make if even a few of those deflections turned into takeaways! At 26 years old, in his fourth year out of Iowa, Moss is playing for more than just wins this season. This is his contract year, and while he’s not thinking beyond it, telling "Around The NFL" that "It’ll handle itself out like it always has," you know this season is massive for his long-term prospects. This 2026 season isn't just about showing up, it's about polishing his game and proving he's worth a big extension. His ability to clean up the penalties and create more turnovers will be huge in determining his future with the Broncos and his next contract.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.