Jordyn Adams, 26, has officially enrolled at Southern Methodist University, where he will suit up for the Mustangs football program. The move marks a dramatic shift for a player who once topped high school rankings as a dual‑sport prospect.
A Rare Dual‑Sport Return
Adams first rose to prominence as a baseball phenom drafted 17th overall by the Los Angeles Angels in 2018. He signed a reported $3.5 million deal and climbed through the minor leagues, amassing 55 home runs, yet never secured a permanent spot on a major‑league roster.
Before his professional baseball stint, Adams was a highly touted football recruit who committed to the University of North Carolina, where he was expected to play both football and baseball. His athleticism drew attention from programs across the country, including Alabama, Clemson, Oregon and Ohio State.
The NIL Landscape Shift
The decision to return to football hinges on the evolving name, image and likeness (NIL) environment. Recent legislative changes have opened new revenue streams for college athletes, allowing Adams to capitalize on his marketability while reigniting a football career that stalled in the minors.
Adams still retains his NCAA eligibility, a loophole that clears his path to the SMU roster. Coaches and analysts alike have described the move as one of the most unusual comeback stories the sport has seen in recent memory.
His arrival at SMU has already sparked conversation among teammates, alumni and media outlets. The Mustangs hope his elite athleticism will translate into a competitive edge on the field, while the broader college football community watches closely to see how his dual‑sport journey unfolds.