4-star WR from class of 2027 has high praise for Texas receivers coach Chris Jackson

In the competitive world of college football recruiting, establishing strong relationships with prospective players is paramount. Chris Jackson, the Texas Longhorns’ wide receivers coach, has demonstrated exceptional prowess in this area, earning accolades from notable recruits. One such recruit is Michael Harris, a 4-star wide receiver from the class of 2025, who has expressed high regard for Coach Jackson’s approach and impact.

Michael Harris, a standout wide receiver from Mater Dei High School in California, ranks as the No. 13 wide receiver nationally and the No. 16 overall recruit in California. In discussions about his recruitment, Harris highlighted the significance of the relationships he has built with coaching staffs. He noted that during his visits to Texas, the coaching staff made a concerted effort to engage with him, ensuring that every interaction felt genuine and not merely a formality. Specifically, Harris mentioned,

“Coach (Chris) Jackson, that’s my guy. He wasn’t the first guy to offer me, but once he got the job he hit me up, we immediately clicked like that. We come from the same place, went to Mater Dei, we have a lot of mutual so that’s one good thing about them.”

This connection, rooted in shared experiences and mutual respect, underscores the importance of personal relationships in the recruiting process.

Before joining the Texas coaching staff, Chris Jackson had an extensive career in the NFL, both as a player and a coach. He played as a receiver for five years with various teams, gaining firsthand experience of the professional demands of the position. Transitioning into coaching, Jackson served as a defensive assistant and later as the wide receivers coach for the Chicago Bears. In 2022, he continued his coaching journey with the Jacksonville Jaguars before being appointed as Texas’s wide receivers coach in 2023.

Jackson’s NFL experience profoundly influences his coaching philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of preparing players for professional opportunities, stating,

“When you look at the guys that you bring into Texas, you have to be more critical and selfish – if you don’t play in the NFL in three or four years, then why am I recruiting you?”

This mindset ensures that his coaching not only focuses on immediate performance but also on long-term player development and success.

Coach Jackson’s approach has significantly influenced the 2025 recruiting class for Texas. His efforts were instrumental in securing commitments from top-tier wide receiver prospects, earning him the distinction of Rivals National Recruiter of the Year. Among the recruits he attracted were:

• Kaliq Lockett: Ranked as the No. 2 wide receiver nationally, Lockett’s commitment was a testament to Jackson’s recruiting prowess.
• Jaime Ffrench: A consensus four-star prospect from Florida, Ffrench’s commitment highlighted Jackson’s ability to connect with out-of-state talent.
• Daylan McCutcheon: An in-state recruit from Lovejoy High School, McCutcheon’s commitment underscored Jackson’s effectiveness in securing local talent.

Jackson’s recruitment strategy emphasizes not only athletic ability but also the character and potential of the players, ensuring a well-rounded and promising class.

Chris Jackson’s impact as Texas’s wide receivers coach extends beyond his coaching techniques and strategies. His ability to build genuine relationships with recruits, coupled with his extensive NFL experience, has positioned him as a pivotal figure in the Longhorns’ recruiting efforts. Prospects like Michael Harris recognize and appreciate Jackson’s approach, which bodes well for the future of Texas football.