Jordyn Adams, a 26‑year‑old who once topped the high school rankings as a football recruit, spent the last four seasons navigating the minor leagues of baseball after signing a $4.1 million deal with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018. His journey took him through the farm systems of the Angels and the Milwaukee Brewers, culminating in a brief MLB debut in 2023 before the Brewers released him from their Triple‑A affiliate on May 25.
Now the former wide receiver is turning his attention back to the gridiron, announcing plans to join the SMU Mustangs for the upcoming season. His eligibility, however, hinges on pending NCAA proposals that could grant athletes a five‑year window to compete after high school graduation or before turning 19, a rule change that might finally clear the path for his return.
Adams is not alone in this cross‑sport pivot. Monte Harrison, a former Marlins outfielder who spent nine years in professional baseball, recently made the move to Arkansas’s football program in 2024, illustrating a growing trend of baseball veterans testing their fortunes on the football field.
The NCAA's Evolving Eligibility Landscape
The governing body is weighing a "Five‑for‑Five" model that would extend the traditional four‑year eligibility period, allowing athletes to spread their collegiate participation over five years. Such a shift could reshape how former professionals approach the transition back to college competition.
Implications for SMU and the Broader Scene
If the legislation passes, SMU could benefit from a fresh talent pool of athletes who bring professional experience and heightened visibility. Coaches see an opportunity to bolster recruiting while the NCAA grapples with the balance between academic integrity and the expanding commercial landscape of college sports.