Broncos‘ cornerback Riley Moss has never backed down in the face of adversity! And, he derives the strength to counter challenges and excel from his parents, Beth and Mark Moss. Drafted by the Broncos in 2023, the defensive back from Ankeny, Iowa, has displayed a promising football journey. Securing a two-time All-Big Ten First-Team selection, along with the 2021 Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, he has carried the same zeal to the NFL fields.

Not just this, he also holds the Iowa state record in the 110m hurdles. Being 6ft in height and weighing 193 pounds, he stands as an indomitable figure on the fields. And, his parents have played a crucial role in helping him achieve his stature.

Who are Beth and Mark Moss?

Riley Moss’s mother, Beth Moss, works as an Assistant Professor of Nursing, as mentioned on her X handle, wherein she consistently shares updates about Ridley’s latest games. She is employed at Mercy College in Des Moines, Iowa, teaching students to become responsible healthcare professionals. Moreover, she is actively involved in her son’s career choices, alongside Riley’s dad, helping their son achieve his dream.

Even Riley’s father, Mark Moss, is involved in the field of academics as he is an elementary school principal. Mark has always been a die-hard Iowa fan, taking Riley with him to Hawkeye games. When Riley was just around seven years old, he stated that he wanted to play for Iowa, and Mark affirmed that he would do it someday. Beth and Mark together sat down with Riley to make his post-high school plans, with Iowa being his ultimate goal. And their support eventually made it easy for Riley to enter the NFL.

How have Riley Moss’ parents supported his NFL dreams?

As the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the world, it led to the emergence of the Iowa Football Family Organization (IFFO). It was the collective efforts of Iowa football parents, in which Riley’s dad, Mark, played an important role. As the Big Ten season in 2020 got canceled, they organized Zoom meetings to forge a path.

Moreover, Mark and Beth traveled to Rosemont, Illinois, along with other parents, to meet with Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren back on Friday, August 21, 2020. As Mark noted, it was not to tarnish Warren’s reputation but to seek answers regarding the postponed season, and achieve transparency regarding internal matters.

Mark Moss spearheaded the formalization of the pathway, establishing IFFO in 2023 to secure tailgate spots, provide compliance education and NIL guidance, and raise funds. Beyond this as well, Mark and Beth have been an elemental part of Riley’s trajectory.

When Riley was in his freshman year, he faced a tough game against Purdue. Mark advised him in April 2023, “You are at a crossroads. You can either decide to be like a turtle and go in a shell and never be heard from again or you can decide to make sure that never happens. Only you can decide that.” Strong words of support from a dedicated father.

Riley’s parents never forced him to choose football. But, it seems that football chose him. Despite his achievements, Riley’s mom notes that “He will always be my baby,” as expressed in the same article. She understands her son’s resilience, showing pride in his ability to be a leader. And, the love that he gets from his parents is allowing Riley to achieve new heights.