The tensor order parameter of a model nematic liquid crystal close to a rough surface has been analyzed by means of molecular dynamics simulations. We show that the rough surface induces a smectic C layering. Moving towards the bulk, the smectic order disappears and a depression in the uniaxial orientational order below its bulk value occurs, accompanied by a considerable biaxiality. Correspondingly, the director orientation undergoes a strong distortion localized within a few molecular lengths.