Nashville has long been a hotbed for producing top-tier football talent, and two of its brightest stars, Chance Fitzgerald and Mose Phillips, have proven why they were standout athletes in their high school days. Once dominating on the fields of Nolensville and Cane Ridge High Schools, respectively, the former Virginia Tech Hokies now find themselves in the transfer portal, ready to write the next chapters of their promising careers.
Coming out of Nolensville High School, Fitzgerald was the type of player every coach dreams about. A former four-star recruit in the 2023 class, he turned heads with his speed, route running, alpha dog mentality and knack for making big catches. Fitzgerald was pursued by top programs like Auburn, Colorado, and Michigan, but it was Virginia Tech that ultimately won his commitment.
Despite the hype surrounding his arrival in Blacksburg, Fitzgerald’s college journey got off to a slower-than-expected start. After redshirting in 2023, he found himself primarily contributing on special teams this past season. Now, with three years of eligibility remaining, the 6-foot-3 wideout is looking for a program where he can tap into his full potential.
Fitzgerald’s recruiting journey was captivating. At one point, it seemed Oklahoma State would land him, but Virginia Tech swooped in late to secure his signature. While the Hokies didn’t turn out to be the perfect fit, there’s no doubt Fitzgerald’s talent will attract significant interest in the portal. Wherever he lands next, fans can expect to see the electric playmaking ability that made him a household name in Nolensville.
Mose Phillips: The Defensive Dynamo:
While Fitzgerald shined as an offensive weapon, Mose Phillips was busy making life miserable for opposing offenses at Cane Ridge High School. The versatile defender stepped into the college scene with an immediate impact, playing in all 13 games as a true freshman in 2023. His breakout performance came during the Military Bowl against Tulane, where he registered seven tackles and forced a fumble.
Phillips elevated his game even further in his sophomore campaign. With 65 total tackles (34 solo), four tackles for loss, a sack, three pass breakups, and two forced fumbles, he solidified himself as one of the most productive defenders in college football. His ability to patrol the secondary while displaying high IQ, tackling, and coverage made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for offensive coordinators.
Now with two years of eligibility left, Phillips has become one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal. Whether he’s flying across the field to make a tackle or forcing turnovers with his hard-hitting style, the Nashville native brings an edge and a level of consistency that will make him an asset to any program.
What’s Next for These Nashville Standouts?
Both Fitzgerald and Phillips are at pivotal points in their careers. For Fitzgerald, the opportunity to find a system that maximizes his athleticism and gives him the chance to thrive as a wide receiver is paramount. For Phillips, his proven production on defense ensures that he’ll have his pick of programs eager to add his physicality and leadership to their rosters.
The transfer portal era in college football offers athletes the chance to recalibrate and find environments that better align with their goals. As these two former Nashville standouts prepare for their next moves, they carry with them the pride of a city that has supported their journeys every step of the way.
One thing is certain, wherever they go, Chance Fitzgerald and Mose Phillips will continue to make Nashville proud—and make plenty of noise on Saturdays. Keep an eye on these two as they take the next steps in their football odyssey.
