News Summary
Cory Moore, former Head Coach of Lakewood High School’s football team, has accepted a full-time scouting role with the Los Angeles Rams, marking his first position in the NFL. With a remarkable record of 130 wins and multiple championships, Moore has been pivotal in developing players for the next level, including 12 NFL alumni. His involvement in the Rams’ Scouting Apprentice Program showcases his commitment to diversity and coaching excellence, while he continues to inspire high school athletes in his community.
South St. Petersburg, Florida – Cory Moore has transitioned from a 17-year tenure as Head Coach of the Lakewood High School football team to a full-time scouting position with the Los Angeles Rams, marking his debut in the NFL. Moore’s last day as Lakewood’s head coach was June 1, 2025, and during his time, he was instrumental in building a successful football program.
Under Moore’s leadership, the Lakewood Spartans achieved an impressive overall record of 130 wins and 69 losses. The team secured 21 playoff victories and claimed 13 championship titles, establishing Moore as a respected figure in high school football. Recognized for his exceptional coaching abilities, Moore is a two-time Coach of the Year and has a reputation for identifying and nurturing talent among young athletes.
Moore has coached 12 athletes who made it to the NFL, including recognized players like Dante Fowler, Marquez Valdez-Scantling, and the Griffin twins, Shaquell and Shaquem. His commitment to player development has not only shaped individual careers but also contributed to the growth of football as a whole in the community.
In 2020, the Rams created the Scouting Apprentice Program, aimed at addressing disparities in minority representation within scouting and coaching roles in football. Moore became part of this inaugural group, which included nine aspiring coaches from across the United States. The program focuses on providing training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities, which were essential in his transition to the NFL.
As part of the apprenticeship, Moore received guidance from Taylor Morton, the Senior Personnel Executive and Deputy Chief of College Scouting at the Rams. His experience involved extensive evaluations, analyzing players’ injury histories, and collaborating with NFL scouts on talent from Division II and Division III colleges. In recognition of his dedication, Moore was awarded a Super Bowl ring in 2022 for his contributions through the Scouting Apprentice Program.
Moore believes that the foundation of a player’s success begins in high school, a philosophy he has expressed throughout his coaching career. Since 2008, more than 400 of his former players have transitioned to college football, demonstrating his effectiveness in preparing athletes for the next stage of their careers.
Moore is known for his deep involvement in the community, working closely with young players through summer camps and various development programs. Despite declining numerous college coaching opportunities over the years, he prioritized establishing a strong foundation for his student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of their growth both on and off the field.
In his new role with the Rams, Moore will work remotely while continuing to support and inspire student-athletes in Tampa Bay. He has stated that his most rewarding achievement is witnessing players overcome self-doubt and realize their potential, asserting that this experience holds more weight than any championship victory he has achieved.
Moore’s approach to coaching also highlights the significance of community connections, where he strives to make every player feel seen, valued, and supported. This dedication positions him as a positive influence in both the NFL and the local community, as he brings his extensive coaching experience to the professional level while maintaining his commitment to youth development in South St. Petersburg.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: Lakewood High Football Coach Joins NFL
- St. Pete Catalyst: Local Coach Achieves NFL Dream
- Florida HS Football: 2025 Spring Football Game List
- New York Times: South Florida Football & New Stadium
- USF Bulls: Student Demand for Football Game
- Wikipedia: Coaching in Football
- Google Search: NFL Coaching
- Google Scholar: High School Football Coaching
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Google News: High School Football
