Lexington ISD running back shows recovery after devastating football injury

LEXINGTON, Texas (KBTX) - A week after suffering a serious injury during a football game in Caldwell, Lexington High School running back Jurian “Juju” Moore is walking, talking, and sharing his story of faith and recovery.

From his hospital room at Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin, the 16-year-old said he’s grateful for how far he’s come since the devastating hit that left him unable to speak or move.

“Just grateful, honestly,” he said. “Grateful to be able to speak, move. God’s on our side for sure.”

Juju was injured during last Friday’s game after taking a hit to the back of the head. He was airlifted to Austin after losing movement in his arms and legs and remaining down on the field for nearly 10 minutes.

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The family said Juju’s recovery has been gradual but encouraging, with each day bringing small victories as he regains function in different parts of his body.

Slow but steady improvement

“When we started this journey on Friday, we were nonverbal,” explained Kendra Moore, Juju’s mother. “We had no speech, no movement of his hands, no movement of his feet.”

Juju said those first moments were frightening but each new movement has brought him closer to recovery.

“Not being able to speak or move, but slowly, gradually getting my hands and my neck, my legs,” he described. “My legs are slowly coming back, but it’s all in God’s hands.”

His father, Riley Moore, told KBTX watching his son’s determination has given the family strength.

“It’s been a little tough, but you know, we’re getting through it,” shared Riley Moore. “He’s been a trooper. He had a really good day today. So, he’s coming along very well right now. We just pray that he continues to grow and get stronger.”

Support from all sides

The Moore family said their faith and the support from across Texas have kept them encouraged throughout the ordeal.

“It’s been rough, but our faith is what’s held us together,” Kendra Moore said. “We haven’t left the hospital since he was airlifted. We’ve been here every second, every minute with him, holding his hand through this process.”

The support has reached far beyond their small town. Juju has received care packages from professional football organizations including the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys.

The Moores said that support has also come from teammates, coaches, and even the opposing Caldwell players, who made a surprise hospital visit days after the injury.

“It meant a lot,” said Juju. “It was the last thing I expected. Most guys. after a hit like that. like to celebrate. But instead, they celebrated with me. It showed a lot of sportsmanship.”

Kendra Moore called the gesture the true heart of high school sports, “Something that could have been tragic turned into love... It was nothing but pure kindness and sportsmanship.”

Riley Moore said the community support has been amazing, “It’s not a day that somebody from Lexington doesn’t come to the hospital... Old friends we haven’t talked to in years have shown up. It’s been overwhelming and a blessing.”

Looking ahead

Despite the challenges, Juju said he’s focused on returning to football.

“Oh, yeah, for sure,” he said when asked about playing again. “That’s all I’ve been talking about.”

Kendra Moore said the family supports that dream wholeheartedly.

“This is just a minor setback,” she called it. “We believe he’s going to have a major comeback.”

The Moore family has set up a medical fund to help with expenses. More information is available on the Support Now platform.