From Diamond to Gridiron: Adams' Unconventional Athletic Comeback
A New Chapter: From Professional Baseball to Collegiate Football
After a significant period playing in Major League Baseball and its minor league affiliates, Jordyn Adams, at 26 years old, is making a pivotal career decision. Reports indicate his intention to join the SMU Mustangs' football program this autumn, signifying a remarkable transition back to the sport where he also excelled during his high school years.
The Absence from the Roster and His Past Football Acumen
While his name had not yet appeared on the official SMU roster earlier on Tuesday, Adams's football prowess is well-documented. Eight years prior, he was recognized as a five-star wide receiver recruit by 247Sports, ranking third nationally at his position and fourteenth overall among all prospects. This esteemed classification placed him in the company of future NFL All-Pros such as Amon-Ra St. Brown, Ja'Marr Chase, Patrick Surtain II, and Micah Parsons.
The Baseball Path: A Shift from North Carolina to Professional Leagues
Adams initially committed to playing both baseball and football at North Carolina after a stellar high school career. However, a lucrative offer from the Los Angeles Angels, who selected him 17th overall in the 2018 MLB Draft with a contract valued around $3.5 million, led him to choose professional baseball. This decision set him on a different trajectory for several years.
His Journey Through Professional Baseball
As an outfielder, Adams accumulated 678 games in the minor leagues, achieving a batting average of .245. Throughout his minor league tenure, he hit 55 home runs, drove in 304 runs, and successfully stole 165 bases, showcasing his athletic abilities on the diamond. His Major League debut occurred on August 2, 2023, playing 17 games for the Angels that year, followed by 11 in 2024. Before the 2025 season, he became a free agent and joined the Baltimore Orioles for 10 games.
Transition to College Football: A Bold Move
Adams's professional baseball career continued with a signing by the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2026 season, which saw him assigned to Triple-A Nashville. However, his release last month prompted a significant career reevaluation. Instead of seeking another baseball team, he opted for a dramatic shift to college football, underscoring his desire to return to the sport he once dominated. His MLB batting average concluded at .165, with one home run and five RBIs.
Following a Unique Precedent in Athletic Transfers
Adams is not the first athlete to transition from professional baseball to college football. A notable predecessor is Chris Weinke, who, after six years in professional baseball, became the starting quarterback for Florida State. Weinke famously won the Heisman Trophy in 2000 at the age of 28, illustrating that a career change of this magnitude can lead to significant success and recognition in a different sport.