DeLand has one of the most dangerous young offensive weapons in Central Florida, and four-star running back Taihj Moore continues to show exactly why Power Four programs across the country are pursuing him.
The Class of 2028 standout has been dominant since stepping onto the varsity level. Before beginning his junior season, Moore had already piled up 2,807 rushing yards and 44 touchdowns while averaging an impressive 9.5 yards per carry. He has also proven to be much more than a traditional running back, adding 521 receiving yards and two touchdowns through the air while even throwing three touchdown passes, that production hasn’t slowed down in 2026..
Through DeLand’s first two reported games, Moore has rushed for 236 yards and five touchdowns while adding another 60 yards through receiving and passing. Against national powerhouse St. Frances Academy, Moore delivered 118 rushing yards and two touchdowns, extending his streak to four consecutive games with at least 110 yards on the ground dating back to last season.
Moore’s game is built for the next level. At around 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds, he combines legitimate speed with vision, balance and impressive strength. He can make defenders miss in space, run through contact and contribute as a receiver, giving DeLand a weapon that defenses have to account for on every snap.
The recruiting attention reflects it. Florida, Florida State, Miami, Michigan, Penn State, UCF, Syracuse, Illinois, Wisconsin, NC State and several other programs have already entered the picture. This isn’t simply a player projected to eventually receive Power Four attention — Moore is already being recruited like a major Power Four prospect.
DeLand hosts Lake Mary on Friday night in one of Central Florida’s matchups to watch. Moore has already shown what he can do against the Rams. In last year’s meeting, he exploded for 170 rushing yards and two touchdowns on only 14 carries, an average of more than 12 yards per attempt. With Lake Mary coming back onto the schedule, Moore will once again have an opportunity to make a statement against quality competition.
Preps Next projects Moore to remain among Central Florida’s most productive backs throughout the remainder of the season and continue strengthening his case as one of Florida’s premier 2028 prospects. His combination of production, versatility and explosiveness gives him everything necessary to eventually become an impact Power Four running back.
The offers are already arriving. The numbers are already there, and with the remainder of this season with another still ahead of him after this year, Taihj Moore’s ceiling is extremely high.
For anyone following the next wave of elite talent coming out of Central Florida, Taihj Moore is already one of the names at the top of the list.
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