Jordan Whittington, BJ Foster among 247Sports’ former five-stars facing prove-it years
Not every five-star prospect pans out on the college football stage.
It could be due to lack of player development within the particular program, injuries that derailed their careers, or a variety of other reasons. Regardless, young highly-rated recruits face an immense amount of pressure when they step foot on campus.
The Longhorns have two players listed on 247Sports’ list of former five-star prospects that are facing prove-it years in 2021. Defensive back BJ Foster and wide receiver Jordan Whittington were among the group. Will the duo be able to showcase their full potential under a new coaching staff?
Foster has had an uneven Longhorn career. He’s played a lot and had his moments, particularly when asked to play in the box and attack downhill. But Foster has consistently struggled in coverage. He’s never posted better than a 64.4 PFF College grade since arriving on the 40 Acres, and he had his worst season in that regard last year, allowing receptions on 14 of his 21 targets. There were a ton of transfer rumors about Foster this offseason, but he’s opted to stay put for his senior season. Where he’ll fit in a new defense remains in question.
Foster is in a battle to start with Jerrin Thompson (two career starts) and converted wideout Brenden Schooler, who hasn’t played safety since 2016. Foster is going to have to show out in fall camp to earn a starting role. From there, it’s up to Foster to prove he’s worthy of NFL Draft consideration.
Wide receiver Jordan Whittington is the most understandable considering he hasn’t been able to stay healthy over his first two seasons in Austin. Here’s what 247Sports had to say about the promising young star:
The third-year receiver is arguably the most dynamic and versatile weapon on Texas’ roster outside of running back Bijan Robinson. Whittington impressed the new coaching staff with a strong spring output. That has Whittington in position to emerge as a breakout player this season.
There is one caveat with Whittington: Injuries. A sports hernia cost Whittington almost all of 2019 while a minor knee surgery and a hip flexor issue limited Whittington to just five games last year. But when healthy, Whittington makes plays. He caught 21 passes last season and also ran three times for 50 yards.
Given Steve Sarkisian’s ability to consistently place his best playmakers in position with a favorable one-on-one matchup, Whittington is the type of player who can thrive. Now he just needs to stay healthy.
The potential for Whittington and Foster is certainly present, it just needs to consistently translate onto the field.
