University of Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel was happy to see Nick Moore on campus.
The four-star offensive lineman from Jefferson County in the class of 2025 appreciated Heupel's enthusiasm every time he spoke with him, which helped further solidify his decision to attend Tennessee on Thursday.
“He was happy for me and I could tell he meant it,” Moore told Knox News. “When I called him last night and told him I was committing, he was so happy. I could hear his smile on the phone and his wife was congratulating me and everyone was celebrating.”
The 6-foot-3, 300-pound Moore is the No. 10 player in the state and the No. 20 offensive lineman in the class of 2025, according to the 247Sports Composite. He picked the Vols after receiving an offer on May 10. He took his official visit over the weekend.
He decided to attend the University of Tennessee over Vanderbilt and West Virginia.
Moore was named the Region 1-6A Offensive Lineman of the Year and was named to the Knox News All-Prep Extra First Team as a 2023 offensive lineman.
Tennessee's culture was a key factor in Moore's decision.
“They have a unity that I haven't seen with any team that I've been to,” said Moore, who also had interest in Ole Miss, North Carolina and Kentucky. “They live that culture in every aspect of it, so it doesn't just extend inside the building, it extends outside the building as well. And I feel like they make the community better, and I want to be a part of that.”
Moore also appreciated the way Tennessee conveyed its commitment to prioritizing his development not only as a player but as a person.
Moore described himself as an aggressive player on the field who can see an oncoming attack, and also as a leader who inspires his teammates during games.
All Area Teams:Knox News 2023 All-Prep Extra High School Football Team
VOLS gives back:How a former Tennessee football star helped Josh Heupel launch his coaching career ahead of schedule
Moore also played as a defensive tackle, leading Jefferson County to a 10-2 record and a berth in the second round of the Class 6A state tournament, recording 40 tackles, 14 quarterback pressures, 11 tackles for loss, three sacks, one fumble recovery and one interception.
The night before Moore announced his commitment will be one he'll never forget. He spent the night with his parents and Jefferson County coach Spencer Riley. He said it was an incredible moment to officially take the first step in his career.
“I just couldn't believe I was going to be playing college football next year. It was really exciting for me and my family,” Moore said. “There were smiles on everyone's faces.”
Toyloy Brown III is a sports reporter for Knox News. His email address is toyloy.brown@knoxnews.com. X was formerly on Twitter as @TJ3rd_.
