South Carolina’s Jakai Moore Granted Seventh Year, Poised for Impactful Transfer After Injury Comeback
In a sport where time is often measured in seasons and snaps, Jakai Moore’s college football journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Now, after six years in Columbia and a grueling battle with injury, the veteran offensive lineman has been granted a rare seventh year of eligibility. His next step? A fresh start—and he won’t be short on suitors.
South Carolina offensive lineman Jakai Moore has entered the transfer portal as a grad transfer, @On3sports has learned.
Has played in 43 career games. https://t.co/wMrfFrcNOy pic.twitter.com/wwoIbMqUKA
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) April 24, 2025
A Career Defined by Versatility and Perseverance
Moore’s time at South Carolina has been marked by both resilience and adaptability. Signed in the 2019 recruiting class, the Virginia native quickly became a fixture on the Gamecocks’ offensive line, playing in 44 games and starting 28 of them. His versatility became his hallmark—starting 13 times at left tackle, seven at left guard, four at right guard, and another four at right tackle.
We All Cope Differently
On this episode of Unit3d, Ryan talks w/ University of South Carolina Offensive Lineman, Jakai Moore, about the struggles Jakai has faced during his collegiate career & how he copes w/ adversity, on & off the field.
Jakai sadly lost his wonderful Mom… pic.twitter.com/QqmL3MCZJI
— Hilinski’s Hope (@HilinskisHope) September 17, 2024
By the end of 2023, Moore had cemented himself as one of the most experienced and trusted linemen in the SEC, starting nine games across three different positions that season alone. But just as 2024 promised to be a defining chapter in his career, a season-ending shoulder injury took it all away.
“It’s tough,” Moore said last fall, sidelined but present, always mentoring, always watching. “You put everything into this game, and to not be out there with your brothers, it’s hard. But I knew I wasn’t done.”
The Seventh Year: A New Beginning
Now, at 24 years old, Moore stands as the longest-tenured player on the South Carolina roster, a rare blend of experience and determination. With his petition for a seventh year granted, Moore is ready to write one final chapter—and it could come with a new team.
The NCAA’s decision to extend his eligibility has opened doors across the country, and teams in need of offensive line help are already taking notice. Among them? The defending national champions.
Ohio State Eyes Veteran Presence
Rumors are swirling that Ohio State has its sights set on Moore to bolster their offensive line depth. The Buckeyes, fresh off a championship run, are seeking experienced talent to fill key gaps—particularly at tackle. While the interior line in Columbus appears solid, questions remain about the depth and reliability at both tackle spots, especially on the left side.
Moore’s ability to play multiple positions with competence, coupled with over 1,700 career snaps, makes him an ideal candidate to step in and provide immediate leadership and stability.
For Ohio State, Moore could be the missing piece—a seasoned veteran with the poise and power to anchor the line in critical moments. For Moore, it’s an opportunity to compete at the highest level, with one more shot to leave his mark.
A Legacy Still in Motion
After six seasons, 44 games, and a journey filled with highs and setbacks, Jakai Moore’s college football story isn’t over. Whether in Columbus or elsewhere, one thing is clear: Moore’s experience, resilience, and versatility will make him one of the most sought-after linemen in the portal.
And wherever he goes, he won’t just be filling a spot—he’ll be setting a standard.
