Home Sweet Home: Just Hours Ago, Jordan Whittington Makes Triumphant Return to Texas Longhorns as Director of Player Development, Bringing NFL Experience and Leadership to His Alma Mater
In a heartening development for the Texas Longhorns community, former standout wide receiver Jordan Whittington has returned to his alma mater as the Director of Player Development. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Whittington’s journey, transitioning from a key player to a pivotal leadership role within the team.
Whittington’s collegiate career at Texas from 2019 to 2023 was marked by resilience and adaptability. Despite facing multiple injuries early on, he transitioned from running back to wide receiver, ultimately playing in 41 games with 25 starts. He ranks 12th in UT history in career receptions (141) and 14th in receiving yards (1,757). His leadership and dedication were instrumental in guiding the Longhorns to a successful 2024 season, culminating in a Peach Bowl victory and a College Football Playoff appearance.
Following his collegiate success, Whittington was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. During his rookie season, he recorded 22 receptions for 293 yards and contributed significantly on special teams with 453 return yards. His performance earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team, highlighting his immediate impact at the professional level.
In his new role at Texas, Whittington is poised to leverage his vast experience to mentor and develop current student-athletes. The Director of Player Development position focuses on guiding players in their personal growth, academic pursuits, and preparation for life beyond football. Whittington’s firsthand experience as both a college and professional athlete positions him uniquely to provide invaluable insights and support to the Longhorns.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian expressed enthusiasm about Whittington’s return, stating, “Jordan’s journey exemplifies the values we instill in our program. His experiences and leadership will undoubtedly have a profound impact on our players.” Whittington’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the program’s foundation and ensure sustained success in the coming seasons.
