Texas Tech’s football program has made a significant splash in the 2024 recruiting cycle with the commitment of standout linebacker Jordan Thompson, a three-star prospect from Denver, Colorado. The 6’2″, 225-pound defensive playmaker announced his decision via social media, choosing the Red Raiders over offers from Arizona, Nebraska, and Oregon State. Thompson, ranked among the top 50 linebackers nationally by 247Sports, brings a blend of athleticism and football IQ to Lubbock, marking a key victory for head coach Joey McGuire’s expanding recruiting reach.
Player Background:
Jordan Thompson emerged as a defensive force at Denver East High School, amassing 112 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks during his junior season. A two-time All-State honoree, Thompson also captained his team to back-to-back Colorado 5A playoff appearances. His versatility shines in coverage, with 5 interceptions and 9 pass breakups over his high school career, underscoring his ability to disrupt both the run and pass. Off the field, Thompson maintains a 3.8 GPA and volunteers with local youth football camps, reflecting his leadership beyond the gridiron.
Recruitment Process:
Thompson’s recruitment heated up in spring 2023 after a dominant junior film circulated among Power 5 programs. Texas Tech linebackers coach Josh Bookbinder identified Thompson early, extending an offer in January. Despite late pushes from Pac-12 and Big Ten programs, Thompson narrowed his choices to Texas Tech and Nebraska after official visits in June. His relationship with Bookbinder and defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter’s aggressive scheme proved pivotal. “Coach Book made me feel like family,” Thompson said. “They showed exactly how I’d fit into their system.”
Why Texas Tech?
Thompson emphasized Texas Tech’s culture and developmental track record. “They’ve turned guys like me into NFL players,” he noted, referencing recent Red Raider draftees. McGuire’s pitch centered on immediate rotational opportunities in a linebacker corps losing senior Bryce Ramirez. The program’s $200 million facility upgrades, including a new athlete performance center, also resonated. “The resources here are unmatched,” Thompson added. “I knew I could thrive academically and athletically.”
Analyst Take:
“Jordan is a sideline-to-sideline thumper with underrated coverage instincts,” said 247Sports Midwest analyst Greg Biggins. “He needs to add bulk, but his motor and tackling efficiency translate well to the Big 12. Texas Tech getting a kid from Colorado is a testament to their staff’s hustle.” Rivals lists Thompson as a “sleeper” who could climb rankings with a strong senior season.
Impact on Texas Tech’s Defense:
Thompson joins a linebacker group seeking depth after ranking 9th in the Big 12 against the run in 2023. His hybrid skills align with DeRuyter’s 3-4 scheme, which prioritizes versatile backers in blitz packages. With incumbent starter Ben Roberts returning, Thompson could push for snaps alongside junior college transfer Marco Reyes. “Jordan’s arrival gives us flexibility,” DeRuyter said. “He’s a three-down linebacker who elevates our speed.”
Recruiting Class Implications:
Thompson is the 14th commit in Texas Tech’s 2024 class, which now ranks 28th nationally per 247Sports. His pledge continues a trend of McGuire landing talent beyond Texas borders, with six out-of-state commits this cycle. “We’re building a national brand,” McGuire stated. “Jordan’s commitment signals that top players nationwide see Lubbock as a destination.”
Broader Trends:
Texas Tech’s 2024 class features four linebackers, emphasizing defensive rejuvenation. Thompson’s Colorado roots follow 2023 signee DJ Kelly (California), highlighting McGuire’s strategy to blend in-state gems with targeted national recruits. The staff’s social
