Texas edge rusher Trey Moore surprises with first-round ability, NFL scout says

AUSTIN — Texas Longhorns pass rusher Trey Moore is surrounded by plenty of anticipation as he begins his first season in Austin.

The UTSA transfer was one of the best defensive players in college football last season en route to winning the 2023 American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year after finishing with 14 sacks. However, some have questioned whether Moore will be able to make a smooth transition to the SEC.

But according to one NFL draft scout, Moore has been shining in training camp, showcasing his first-round ability while also clearing any outside doubts.

ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller revealed on X (Twitter) on Thursday that Moore has been “impressing” the Texas coaching staff during the offseason.

“I’ve heard great things about Texas pass rusher Trey Moore, who came in from UTSA,” Miller tweeted. “Expectations in Austin are for double-digit sacks. I’ve heard they think he’s a possible first- or second-round draft pick. Early word is he’s surprised this team that had two top-50 picks last year.”

Speaking to the media on Thursday via Zoom, Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks revealed that Moore has been one of the toughest quarterbacks he’s had to block this offseason. Considering Banks is expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2025 draft, this speaks volumes to the talent Moore possesses.

Banks also shared a story from earlier this summer where Moore, who is 6’3″, 245 pounds, showed off his strength in the weight room while bench pressing.

“We were lifting weights, and I think it was the second summer session, and Trey Moore, you wouldn’t think he’s as strong as he is, but that guy, he can lift some weights, man,” Banks said. “He’s very strong, very powerful and it shows on the field, too. … “I think it was like (400 pounds) or (500) or something, and he did it. He did it pretty easily, so that was a revelation.”

Moore, a product of Smithson Valley High School and San Antonio, had just one tackle as a freshman at UTSA but burst onto the scene as a junior last season, as his 14 sacks were third-most in FBS. He also recorded 45 total tackles, three passes defensed, one forced fumble and one interception.

No. 4 Texas begins the regular season at home against Colorado State on Saturday, Aug. 31. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Central Time.