Moriarty fumbled the ball 0 times in his career. He rushed for 23.6 yds per game and got into the endzone 13 times as a runner. He carried the football 500 different times for an average of 3.8 YPC. During his NFL career, Moriarty took the field in 81 contests and gained 1,908 yards carrying the ball.
Moriarty carried the ball 0 different times for an average of 0.0 yards per attempt. During his 0 games in his last year, Larry Moriarty rushed for 0.0 yds per contest and got in the endzone 0 times on the ground. His longest run that year was 0 yds. Larry Moriarty may not be a household name like some of the great NFL running backs, but his contributions to the league during the 1980s remain noteworthy. His journey from college to the professional ranks is a testament to hard work and perseverance, making his story an interesting chapter in NFL draft history.
Early Life and College Career
Larry Moriarty was born on April 24, 1958, in Santa Barbara, California. Growing up, he was passionate about sports, particularly football. Moriarty’s talent became evident during his high school years, where he played as a running back and garnered attention for his powerful running style and ability to break through defensive lines.
Following high school, Moriarty attended the University of Notre Dame, a school known for its rich football tradition. Playing for the Fighting Irish, he further honed his skills and emerged as a formidable running back. His college career was marked by determination and resilience, traits that would later define his professional career.
Entering the NFL Draft
Moriarty’s performance at Notre Dame caught the eye of NFL scouts, and he entered the 1982 NFL Draft with high hopes. Despite the competition and pressure, Moriarty’s strength and ability to read defenses made him an attractive prospect. He was selected in the fourth round by the Kansas City Chiefs, a team looking to bolster its running back options.
Transition to the NFL
Making the transition from college to the NFL is a challenge for any player, and Moriarty was no exception. However, his college experience and work ethic helped him adapt to the faster pace and more complex strategies of professional football. As a rookie with the Chiefs, Moriarty showcased his skills, contributing both as a runner and a pass-catcher out of the backfield.
Career Highlights
Larry Moriarty’s time with the Kansas City Chiefs and later with the Houston Oilers was marked by several highlights that underscored his talent and versatility as an NFL running back.
Kansas City Chiefs
During his tenure with the Chiefs, Moriarty quickly became a valuable asset. His ability to power through defensive lines and gain crucial yardage made him a reliable option in critical situations. Moriarty’s strong performances on the field earned him respect from teammates and coaches alike.
Houston Oilers
In 1984, Moriarty was traded to the Houston Oilers, where he continued to make an impact. Playing alongside other talented players, he contributed to the team’s offensive strategies with his consistent performance and tenacity. Moriarty’s time with the Oilers solidified his reputation as a determined and effective running back.
Playing Style and Legacy
Larry Moriarty was known for his aggressive running style and ability to power through defenders. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 225 pounds, he was a formidable presence on the field. His approach to the game was characterized by toughness and a never-give-up attitude, traits that endeared him to fans and teammates.
Although Moriarty’s NFL career was relatively short, spanning from 1982 to 1987, his impact was significant. He demonstrated that with hard work and dedication, a player can make meaningful contributions to their team, even if they are not the star player. Moriarty’s journey from college to the NFL serves as an inspiration for aspiring football players who dream of making it to the professional level.
Post-NFL Life
After retiring from professional football, Larry Moriarty transitioned to life off the field. Like many former athletes, he faced the challenge of finding a new path after a career in sports. Moriarty’s post-NFL life included various endeavors, and he remained connected to the sport he loved through coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Conclusion
Larry Moriarty’s story is a reminder of the diverse paths taken by NFL players and the hard work required to succeed at the highest level of the sport. His journey from a promising college athlete to a respected NFL running back highlights the importance of perseverance and dedication.
Moriarty’s contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Oilers may not have garnered widespread fame, but they were crucial to his teams and left a lasting impact on those who witnessed his performances. As part of NFL draft history, Moriarty’s career exemplifies the spirit of the game and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the league.
For fans of the NFL and those interested in the stories of players who have shaped the game, Larry Moriarty’s journey offers valuable insights into the life of a professional athlete and the legacy they leave behind. His career, though not adorned with accolades, remains a testament to the power of determination and the enduring appeal of football.