Denniston Oliver Moore Jr. Bio
Denniston Oliver Moore Jr., known as D. J. Moore, is an American professional football wide receiver currently playing for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of Maryland before being drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Moore was traded to the Bears in March 2023, where he continues to be a key offensive player.
Early Life and Background
D. J. Moore was born on April 14, 1997, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended Imhotep Institute Charter High School in Philadelphia, where he played high school football and developed his skills as a wide receiver. Moore is of Jamaican descent through his father, which adds to his diverse background.
During his high school years, Moore showed significant promise as a football player, which led to his commitment to the University of Maryland. His early exposure to competitive football in Philadelphia helped shape his athletic abilities and prepared him for collegiate competition.
Path to American Football
Moore played college football for the Maryland Terrapins from 2015 to 2017. Over his three years at Maryland, he steadily improved, culminating in a record-setting junior season. He set a school record with 80 receptions for 1,033 yards and eight touchdowns in 2017. His performance earned him first-team All-Big Ten honors and the Big Ten Receiver of the Year award that same year.
Following his junior season, Moore declared for the 2018 NFL Draft, foregoing his senior year to pursue a professional career. His collegiate success and athleticism positioned him as a top wide receiver prospect entering the draft.
D. J. Moore Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
Moore was selected 24th overall in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers, making him the first wide receiver chosen that year. He signed a four-year contract worth $11.2 million, including a $6.2 million signing bonus. Moore made his NFL debut in the Panthers’ season opener against the Dallas Cowboys, and he scored his first professional touchdown in the following game with a 51-yard reception.
In his rookie season, Moore recorded 55 receptions for 788 yards and two touchdowns, earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) All-Rookie Team. The following season, he improved his production with 87 receptions for 1,175 yards and four touchdowns, establishing himself as a reliable target in the Panthers’ offense.
Carolina Panthers Breakthrough (2020–2022)
Moore continued to excel with the Panthers, recording 66 receptions for 1,193 yards and four touchdowns in the 2020 season despite a brief placement on the reserve/COVID-19 list. The Panthers exercised the fifth-year option on his contract in 2021, guaranteeing a salary of over $11 million for that season.
In 2021, Moore posted 93 receptions for 1,157 yards and four touchdowns. He signed a three-year, $61.9 million contract extension with Carolina in March 2022. That season, he recorded 63 receptions for 888 yards and a career-high seven touchdowns, though he missed his streak of consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons.
Chicago Bears Era (2023–Present)
Moore was traded to the Chicago Bears in March 2023 as part of a deal involving multiple draft picks. He quickly became a key contributor, recording career-highs with 96 receptions for 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns in his first season with the Bears. Notably, he had a standout game in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders with eight catches for 230 yards and three touchdowns, marking career highs in both yards and touchdowns in a single game.
In July 2024, Moore signed a four-year, $110 million contract extension with the Bears, making him the first receiver in NFL history to have the first 10 years of his career fully guaranteed. During the 2024 season, he continued to perform at a high level, finishing with 98 receptions for 966 yards and six touchdowns. In 2025, Moore showcased versatility by throwing a touchdown pass on a trick play and scoring on a 16-yard run, highlighting his dynamic skill set.
Driving Style and Strengths
D. J. Moore is known for his speed, agility, and ability to make contested catches. He excels in creating separation from defenders and is effective both in short-yardage situations and as a deep threat. His versatility allows him to contribute in various offensive schemes, and his rapport with quarterbacks has been a key factor in his success.
Notable Events and Milestones
Moore has achieved several milestones, including surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in multiple seasons and setting career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. His 230-yard, three-touchdown game with the Bears stands out as a signature performance. Additionally, his contract extension in 2024 marked a historic moment in NFL contract guarantees for wide receivers.
D. J. Moore Career Wins
Throughout his NFL career, D. J. Moore has consistently been a top receiver, contributing significantly to his teams’ offensive successes. He has recorded multiple 1,000-yard receiving seasons and has been a reliable target in critical game situations.
NFL Highlights
Moore’s rookie season earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. He has recorded several standout games, including multiple 100-yard receiving performances and multi-touchdown games. His ability to produce consistently over several seasons has established him as one of the premier wide receivers in the league.
Other Performances
In addition to his NFL achievements, Moore’s college career at Maryland was distinguished by record-setting performances and conference honors. His transition from college to professional football was marked by immediate impact and continued development.
D. J. Moore Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Moore is of Jamaican descent through his father. Details about his parents and family beyond this heritage are not publicly documented.
Personal Life
Public information about Moore’s personal life, including marital status and children, is not available. He maintains a professional focus on his football career.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 NFL season, D. J. Moore continued to demonstrate his versatility and playmaking ability. He scored his first touchdown of the season in Week 3 and threw a touchdown pass on a trick play in Week 9, showcasing his multifaceted skill set. Moore also scored on a 16-yard run in a high-scoring victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite a challenging game in Week 14, he rebounded with two touchdowns the following week, including a spectacular 22-yard catch described as a “magic trick”. His game-winning 46-yard touchdown against the Green Bay Packers was a highlight of the season, earning the nickname “Windy City Miracle.” These performances underscore Moore’s continued importance to the Bears’ offense and his ability to deliver in critical moments.