MLB's Top Prospect Got Praised by Randy Moss in 9th Grade

Konnor Griffin is making headlines as MLB's top prospect at just 19 years old, but his jaw-dropping athletic moments started way before the big leagues. Back in ninth grade, the future Pirates star made a catch so spectacular that it caught the attention of NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss.

Griffin was featured on ESPN's "You Got Mossed," a segment where the legendary wide receiver highlights incredible catches by young athletes. In the clip, Griffin soars over three defenders (actually four, though he modestly remembered it as three) to haul in a highlight-reel grab that left Moss visibly impressed.

"Hey Konnor, I see you baby," Moss said on the show, giving the young athlete a shoutout that most high schoolers can only dream about. Griffin stayed characteristically humble when rewatching the moment, simply noting it was "pretty cool" to make that kind of play.

At 6-foot-4 and 222 pounds, Griffin clearly had the size and talent for football. But that ninth grade season turned out to be his last on the gridiron. He made a tough choice that many multi-sport athletes face.

"I never really gave it a chance," Griffin admitted. "I quit right after my ninth-grade year just to avoid the injury piece of it, but I think it could have been pretty fun to go play football somewhere."

Why This Inspires

Griffin's story shows the power of making difficult decisions early and sticking with your passion. While walking away from football meant leaving behind viral moments and Randy Moss shoutouts, it protected his body for the sport he truly loved. Now he's launching home runs out of spring training stadiums and sitting atop baseball's prospect rankings.

His choice also reflects maturity beyond his years. At 14 or 15 years old, he had the foresight to prioritize his long-term dreams over short-term glory. That kind of wisdom, combined with his natural athletic gifts, suggests Pirates fans have something truly special to look forward to.

If Griffin's final football highlight was impressive enough to earn praise from one of the NFL's all-time greats, imagine what's still to come on the baseball diamond.