Jordan Rogers, a sixth‑year senior safety from Pittsburg State, announced his commitment to Texas Tech on Tuesday, bringing a proven track record of playmaking to the Red Raiders' defense. In his most recent season, Rogers recorded 85 tackles, 10 pass breakups, five interceptions and four forced fumbles, earning NCAA Division II all‑America honors and a third‑team all‑conference selection.
A Boost for the Red Raiders' Secondary
Texas Tech already boasts a returning starter at safety in Brenden Jordan, but the addition of Rogers deepens a unit that is also welcoming sophomores Peyton Morgan, Malik Esquerra and Oliver Miles into the mix. Coach staff have described the competition as a 'battle for the starting spot' that could reshape the team's defensive schemes.
Rogers' journey to Lubbock includes a waiver that restored a year of eligibility after he redshirted in 2021 and then missed the 2022 campaign due to a season‑ending injury. The move not only adds experience but also reinforces the program's recruiting narrative in the Midwest.
Pittsburg State, the school Rogers leaves, finished the previous season with a 10‑3 overall record and a 8‑1 mark in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association. The Gorillas' defensive unit was a key factor in that success, and Rogers' ball‑hawk tendencies were on full display throughout 2023 and early 2024.
The upcoming season will also test the depth of the Red Raiders' safety corps. Miles, one of the sophomore contenders, suffered a sprained ankle during spring practice, opening more snaps for Morgan and Esquerra. How Rogers integrates with the existing group will be a storyline to watch as fall camp progresses.