Chris Jackson on the Texas WR class that earned him Rivals National Recruiter of the Year honors

In the fiercely competitive arena of college football recruiting, few achievements resonate as profoundly as being named Rivals National Recruiter of the Year. For Chris Jackson, the Texas Longhorns’ wide receivers coach, this accolade signifies not only personal success but also a transformative impact on the program’s future.

Chris Jackson’s philosophy transcends traditional recruiting metrics. Drawing from his extensive experience as a former NFL wide receiver and coach with the Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars, Jackson emphasizes the importance of preparing players for professional success. He asserts, “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 perspective has been instrumental in attracting top-tier talent to Texas, ensuring that recruits are not only athletically gifted but also possess the potential for professional advancement.

Under Jackson’s guidance, Texas secured commitments from four exceptional wide receivers in the 2025 class:

• Kaliq Lockett (5-star, No. 2 WR nationally): Known for his combination of speed and ball skills, Lockett’s ability to dominate both outside routes and 50-50 situations makes him a formidable prospect. Jackson notes, “Kaliq is a different type of cat… you’ve got speed, he has the ability to take the top end off of coverage.”
• Jaime Ffrench (4-star, No. 10 WR nationally): Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Ffrench’s elite body control and route-running precision set him apart. Jackson describes him as having “elite body control… I’ve never seen that from a high school kid before.”
• Daylan McCutcheon (4-star, No. 18 WR nationally): Initially committed to Florida State, McCutcheon’s versatility and high football IQ led to his flip to Texas. Jackson praises his “position flexibility” and describes him as a “smart, high-IQ football player with position flexibility.”
• Michael Terry (4-star athlete): A dynamic playmaker, Terry’s multifaceted skills allow him to contribute in various offensive roles. Jackson highlights his natural ball skills and versatility, stating, “He seems very natural catching it and seems very natural with the ball in his hands.”

These recruits not only bolster Texas’s receiving corps but also align with Jackson’s vision of developing players with professional aspirations.

Beyond athletic prowess, Jackson places significant emphasis on character and cultural fit. Reflecting on the 2025 class, he remarks, “I’m more excited about the type of people they are… they’ve got great families, they’re great kids, humble, blue-collar kids that want to work.” This focus ensures that recruits contribute positively to the team’s dynamic and uphold the program’s values.

Chris Jackson’s recognition as Rivals National Recruiter of the Year underscores his exceptional ability to identify and cultivate talent. His approach, blending professional insight with a commitment to character development, has set a new standard in college football recruiting. As the 2025 class begins their journey at Texas, the foundation laid by Jackson promises a bright future for the Longhorns.