The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University has named JJ Moses as the 2025 Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award recipient.
JJ Moses will accept the award on April 11 at The Ray Center’s All-Star Evening in West Des Moines. An All-Star Evening is presented by Hy-Vee and benefits The Ray Center’s programs, including CHARACTER COUNTS!
“JJ Moses is a great exemplar of the values that underlie the Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “His infectious attitude of leadership and integrity has had a profound impact on countless lives—far beyond the football field. We are honored to celebrate his work which encourages students to overcome challenges and pursue their greatest dreams.”
This award is The Ray Center’s highest honor. It is presented each spring to an individual who demonstrates good character as a role model and reflects former Gov. Robert D. and Billie Ray’s lifelong commitment to civility and character development. Past recipients include Norman Borlaug, Hayden Fry, Dan Gable, Fred Hoiberg, Shawn Johnson, Dr. Peggy Whitson, and Lisa Bluder.
For more information about An All-Star Evening, including how to purchase tickets, visit AllStarEvening.org.
About JJ Moses
JJ Moses is originally from Waterloo, Iowa. With football in his family line, it was inevitable that JJ would find one of his passions on the football field. His football career started in high school at Waterloo East High. After breaking the rushing record his father set 30 years prior at his high school, JJ went on to receive a full-ride scholarship to play football at Iowa State University.
During his senior year in college, JJ was selected as a First Team All Big XII Kick Returner and Second Team Wide Receiver. JJ was also voted the Most Valuable Player during his senior year at ISU. He helped lead Iowa State to a bowl game which had not been done for 22 years. That team went on to have a 9-3 record, which was the best record ever in the university’s history.
JJ began his NFL career in 2001, where his primary roles were as kick returner and punt returner. He also played in the Scottish Claymores of NFL Europe, where he was the number one punt returner for the season. He played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans.
JJ is a passionate and energetic speaker with more than 20 years of experience. He is committed to inspiring individuals, corporations, businesses, schools, and organizations to reach their highest potential.
In 2008, JJ was brought back by the Houston Texans to be an ambassador for the organization. As a respected former Texan and fan favorite, JJ utilized his leadership and community relations skills to help the team earn recognition for providing the best fan experience in the NFL by J.D. Power & Associates.
In 2018, JJ became the Director of Player Development for the Houston Texans where he assisted players with their transition into the NFL and helped prepare them for their post-NFL career. He developed the Prepare to Win program that focused on leadership, professional and personal development, financial awareness, life skills, and mentorship for players. JJ’s new book titled, “FOCUSED: The Prepare to Win Mindset” was released Oct. 17, 2023, and upon its debut, it was the No. 1 new release in the Business and Professional Growth category on Amazon.