The Aggies received some fantastic news on Friday afternoon as former Kentucky wide receiver Jordan Anthony, who, by Track & Field standards, is one of the fastest men in the country, is coming off of a forgettable freshman season in which he failed to see the field. Yet, his instant downfield threat potential was too intriguing to pass up for head coach Jimbo Fisher.
The Aggies are returning one of the more elite starting wide receiver units in the country in 2023. However, depth and a genuine deep receiving threat outside of sophomore Evan Stewart were currently missing from the roster after former UTEP receiver Tyrin Smith reentered the transfer portal, leading to Fisher and his staff quickly adding former Grand Valley State product Jahdae Walker, who already adds an explosive down-field element after average 20 YPR in 2022.
Still, mind-blowing speed was missing after the departure of running back Devon Achane, who the Miami Dolphins drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft. After Anthony announced that he’d be shopping for other opportunities, new offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino found the final piece in the receiving puzzle.
Take from his Track & Field background, Anthony’s recent accomplishments include winning the U-20 National Track 200m title with a record time of 20.34 seconds, breaking the Kentucky freshman record in the 60m with a time of 6.55 (noted as the second-best in the program history), and won the 60m at the McCravy Memorial and TTU Red Raider Open.
On the field, due to his lack of playing time last season, we had to go off his high school tape, and off the bat, Anthony averaged 20 yards per reception and 24 yards per attempt in special teams as a kick/punt returner. Simply put, he’s electric, especially from the slot due to his size at 5-10 and just nearly160 pounds, but ignoring his obvious weight deficiency, Fisher and Petrino’s plan for Anthony is as plain as day; bubble screens and go-routes anytime he hits the field. On special teams, Anthony may be the front runner for starting kick and punt returner if the Aggies want to protect senior WR Ainias Smith, as his quickness and explosive nature after the catch will certainly entice Fisher this fall.
Congratulations, Jordan, and if you didn’t already know, the Aggies Track & Field program isn’t too shabby either!
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