Jordan Akins

Jordan Akins's Biography

Born on April 19, 1992, Jordan Nikemian Akins is a tight end in the National Football League (NFL) known for his remarkable athleticism and prowess on the field. His journey has not been without challenges, but his resilience, talent, and devotion to the sport have earned him recognition and success in the professional football circuit. As of now, he plays for the Cleveland Browns.

Raised in McDonough, Georgia, Akins attended Union Grove High School where his talent for football began to shine. His skills won him All-State honors during his junior and senior years, and All-Conference recognition in his sophomore year. His prowess on the field attracted the attention of university scouts, with offers pouring in from schools such as Louisiana State University (LSU) and the University of Georgia. Ultimately, Akins chose to commit to the University of Central Florida (UCF) Knights.

However, his athletic abilities were not limited to just football. Akins also showed promise in baseball and was invited by the Texas Rangers to play professionally after the 2010 Major League Baseball (MLB) draft. Forgoing the opportunity to play football at UCF, Akins signed with the Rangers and played for four seasons in the minor leagues. Nonetheless, his baseball career was short-lived as he struggled to keep his hitting average above .218 and did not progress past the high-A ball level. In 2013, he retired from baseball and redirected his focus on his initial passion – football, returning to UCF to fulfill his commitment.

In UCF, Akins showcased his skills as a true freshman in the 2014 season, participating in every game and successfully making 12 receptions for 135 yards. His sophomore year began just as promising, but his season was abruptly cut short due to an unfortunate injury during the third game against Furman. Undeterred, Akins used this setback to come back stronger, electing to take a medical redshirt.

Resuming his play in 2016, the redshirt sophomore seized every opportunity to learn and improve. He played in all 13 games, displaying remarkable skill and agility with 23 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns. His senior year was equally impressive, with 32 passes caught for 515 yards and four touchdowns. Having displayed his full potential, Akins decided to put his hat in the ring for the 2018 NFL draft.

Akins’ decision to join the 2018 NFL draft was a significant one, signaling his readiness to play at the highest level of football. He also got an opportunity to display his skills at the 2018 Senior Bowl. Despite suffering a hamstring injury that kept him from performing at the NFL Scouting Combine, Akins participated in private workouts and meetings with various teams, including the Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and New Orleans Saints.

His hard work and skill didn’t go unnoticed. The Houston Texans selected Akins as the fifth tight end in the third round (98th overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft, making him the highest drafted tight end in UCF’s history. Following his selection, the Texans secured a four-year contract with him, marking the beginning of his NFL career.

Akins commenced his professional journey with impressive performances. In the season opener against the New England Patriots, he recorded two receptions for 11 yards. His debut year concluded with him playing in 16 games, making six starts and recording 17 receptions for 225 yards. His second season in 2019 was successful as well, finishing with 36 receptions for 418 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns.

In 2020, Akins demonstrated his consistency and skill on the field, especially during an encounter with the Chiefs, where he recorded two receptions for 39 yards and a touchdown. After two short stints with the New York Giants and the Texans practice squad in 2022, Akins found a new home with the Cleveland Browns in 2023, where he continues his professional journey, exuding passion and superior ability on the football field.