Wayne Moore was born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, where he attended Charlton-Pollard High School and quickly earned a reputation as a strong and athletic presence on the football field. After graduating, he continued his education and athletic career at Lamar State College of Technology (now Lamar University), where he refined his skills and physicality as a lineman. Known for his size, agility, and work ethic, Moore’s athletic versatility caught the attention of professional scouts. In 1969, he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the San Francisco 49ers. His opportunity came largely thanks to the recommendation of fellow Beaumont native Johnny Fuller — a 49ers player and future inductee into the Museum of the Gulf Coast Sports Hall of Fame — who encouraged team scout John Nikchivich to give Moore a tryout. Initially tried at both tight end and offensive tackle, Moore was released during the preseason but remained on the team’s taxi squad, keeping him close to NFL action.

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In 1970, the 49ers released Moore before the start of the regular season and attempted to pass him through waivers under the name “Solomon Moore,” listing him as a defensive tackle to avoid drawing attention from other teams. However, their plan backfired when Miami Dolphins offensive line coach Monte Clark, who had previously been with San Francisco, recognized the name and claimed him for Miami. That move would become a turning point in Moore’s career — and in the Dolphins’ history. Moore found his place with the Dolphins as an offensive tackle, and his athleticism and intelligence on the field made him a natural fit for the emerging dynasty being built by head coach Don Shula. Moore became the starting left tackle, a crucial role protecting the quarterback’s blind side, and quickly developed a reputation for consistency, durability, and technical precision in one of the NFL’s most dominant offensive lines.

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Over his professional career, Wayne Moore appeared in 98 games and started in 72 of them, contributing significantly to the Miami Dolphins’ success throughout the 1970s. He played in three consecutive Super Bowls — VI, VII, and VIII — and helped anchor the offensive line during the Dolphins’ historic undefeated 1972 season, the only perfect season in NFL history. His performance earned him a selection to the Pro Bowl in 1973, recognizing him among the league’s elite offensive linemen. In 1971, his accomplishments were also celebrated back home when he joined 15 other NFL players from Southeast Texas in being honored by Beaumont Mayor Ken Ritter with a ceremonial key to the city.