Malachi Moore, an American football strong safety for the New York Jets, is of diverse ethnic background. His father is African American, and his mother is Laotian American.
The New York Jets selected him with the 130th pick in the 2025 NFL draft. Despite being drafted on the third day, his playing time might come sooner following the release of the Jets’ starters.
Highlights
- Malachi Moore was born to Torrey Moore and Penny Moore on September 13, 2001, in Trussville, Alabama.
- His mother is of Laotian American descent, and his father is of African American descent.
- Penny is a first-grade teacher at Paine Elementary School, and Torrey played basketball at Middle Tennessee State University in the 1990s.
Malachi played the cornerback and safety positions at Hewitt-Trussville High School in Trussville, Alabama. He recorded 80 tackles and four interceptions during his senior year and was selected to play in the 2020 All-American Bowl.
A 4-star recruit, 247 Sports ranked him as the eighth-best safety prospect in the country for the 2020 class.
In December 2018, he committed to playing college football at the University of Alabama despite Auburn, LSU, Clemson, Tennessee, and Florida offers.
As a member of the Crimson Tide, Malachi made an immediate impact and started the first eleven games during his freshman season.
The Crimson Tide concluded the 2020–2021 season as the top college football team and defeated Ohio State in the CFP National Championship.
Likewise, he assisted his team in winning another SEC conference title in the 2021-22 season and qualifying for the BCS National Championship. He was also invited to play in the 2025 Senior Bowl.
Malachi Moore Belongs To A Diverse Ethnic Background
Malachi Moore, the son of Torrey Moore and Penny Moore, was born on September 13, 2001, in Trussville, Alabama. His parents raised him alongside his brother, Ayden Moore.
He is a Laotian American from his mother’s side and belongs to the African American ethnic group from his father’s side.
Penny More grew up in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, home to a large Laotian community that, in the 1980s, drew manufacturing opportunities from the expanding automotive industry.
Since 2020, she has been a dedicated first-grade teacher at Paine Elementary School in Trussville, Alabama. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from the University of Alabama.
On the other hand, Torrey Moore, who stands 6 feet and 5 inches tall, played basketball at Middle Tennessee State University in the 1990s. He taught his children to be better sportspeople.
Penny and Torrey have supported Malachi’s football journey, helping him develop into one of the top defensive players in college football.
Their impact goes beyond the game; their love and support have woven a story of family commitment. Their family represents a beautiful blend of cultural backgrounds that enriches their identity.
Year 24 with my love! Thankful God chose him for me!! EST 4/14/01
— Penny Moore (@akaPMoe) April 14, 2025
🙏🏽💍🎉🫶🏽 pic.twitter.com/p3ChXWjS3J
Malachi was a standout defensive back for the Alabama Crimson Tide who made a name for himself in college football with his impressive skills and versatility.
He represents a long tradition of excellence in football, particularly in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), where many Black athletes have risen to prominence.
His success at Alabama highlights the importance of diversity and representation in college sports.
Moore has not spoken extensively about his cultural background in interviews, focusing more on his performance on the field.
However, his upbringing in Alabama, a state with deep historical significance in African American culture, likely plays a role in his identity.
Additional Information
- Malachi Moore stands 5 feet 11 inches and weighs about 89 kg.
- He follows the Christian religion, and his captions are related to the Bible’s Proverbs.
- He is engaged to his longtime girlfriend, Ana Gomez, on April 18, 2025.
