First former Gamecock opts out of NFL season due to COVID-19 concerns
Gamecock fans won’t see former South Carolina football star Skai Moore on Sundays this fall, as Moore has decided to opt out of the 2020 NFL season, the Indianapolis Colts announced Tuesday.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter also reported Moore’s decision.
Moore has appeared in 10 games over two seasons with the Colts since joining the pro ranks as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He made Indianapolis’ roster as a rookie before spending most of last season on the practice squad. He made the 80-man roster the Colts had set for training camp heading into the 2020 season.
Several dozen NFL players have opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with many publicly expressing concern for the health and well-being of themselves and their families. Moore is the first former South Carolina player to do so, and the first player for the Colts as well.
Players have until Thursday to opt out. Those who do so and are not considered “high risk” for COVID-19 can earn a $150,000 stipend while not playing.
Moore, a four-year contributor for South Carolina, tied the program record for career interceptions with 14 and either led or tied for the team lead in tackles in each of his four seasons. He was twice named All-SEC and earned Freshman All-American honors from 247Sports.
This story was originally published August 4, 2020 at 3:19 PM.
