Jordyn Adams, once known for his eight-year journey through the minor leagues and a brief stint with the Los Angeles Angels, has announced a surprising career pivot toward football. The move comes as the 26‑year‑old prepares to join the SMU Mustangs, a program that sees in him a rare blend of athletic talent and untapped potential.
From Diamond to Gridiron
Adams spent nearly a decade in professional baseball, batting .165 with a single home run and five RBIs across 38 games for the Angels. He also logged two seasons with the Salt Lake Bees, where he hit .267 with 15 homers and 67 RBIs in 2023, followed by .261 with 10 homers and 58 RBIs in 2024. Despite those numbers, his path was always marked by a love of competition and a desire for new challenges.
Eligibility Opens a Door
What makes this transition possible is the NCAA’s rule that grants student‑athletes five years of eligibility, allowing Adams to enroll at SMU while still preserving a year of athletic eligibility. This loophole transforms a former professional into a college prospect, a narrative that has drawn attention from analysts and fans alike.
A High School Star Revisited
Before his baseball career took off, Adams was a five‑star wide receiver recruit in the class of 2018. Rankings from 247Sports placed him as the No. 17 overall prospect nationally and the No. 3 wide receiver in the country, even ahead of future NFL star Ja’Marr Chase. That early acclaim set the stage for a versatile athletic career.
SMU’s New Recruit
In a recent statement, Adams confirmed his enrollment at SMU and his intention to join the Mustangs’ football squad. He cited the university’s coaching staff, academic resources, and the chance to rewrite his athletic story as key factors. At 26, he enters a collegiate environment where his experience could mentor younger teammates while he pursues a fresh football dream.