By Mike Hutchens, Union City Schools Communications Director
Jovante Moffatt spent a little time at one of his favorite places Friday night before heading off to his dream job.
The former three-sport star at Union City High School, who will begin his fourth season in the National Football League this week, was in attendance at War Memorial Stadium to see most of the Golden Tornadoes’ 20-7 victory over Dyer County.
A smiling Moffatt – the only UCHS football player to make it professionally – was greeted by numerous fans and well-wishers and signed countless autographs before and during the game.
“It’s surreal coming back to where I started, and it feels great to get a lot of love and support from the city,” Moffatt said. “There’s nowhere like home, and I really do appreciate all the kind comments and nice things people have said to me tonight.”
Moffatt was named to the Arizona Cardinals practice squad today and is a candidate to be elevated to the team’s active roster at any time during the 2023 season. Arizona is his fourth NFL team, following two stints with the Cleveland Browns and one each with the New York Jets and the Atlanta Falcons.
He has been gracious when giving back to Union City and the Obion County community, providing multiple Tornado sports programs with shoes, giving scholarships to deserving students, and supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Tennessee. During that time and Friday night, Moffatt credited his local support system as the foundation for his professional and personal success.
“There are so many people here who invested in me, as a person and an athlete,” Moffatt said. “So many have played a role in who I’ve become and the success I have had. I want to keep building on that foundation that was laid in Union City.”
Moffatt has spent time on the practice squads and the active NFL rosters of the Browns and Falcons as a safety and special-teams performer. He signed with the Cardinals in the offseason and feels the organization is an ideal place for him.
“I feel like all my life, I’ve had to fight – and not just with football,” he added. “Ending up in Arizona was kind of a shock, but I really think I’ve put myself in a good position.
“I’ve learned the defense. Hopefully, I can put myself in a position to make some plays and get my name out there.”
It was obvious Friday night that Moffatt’s name will forever be “out there” as a member of the Purple and Gold.
Arizona opens its 2023 campaign Sunday at the Washington Commanders.
