Jordan Whitehead

Jordan Whitehead's Biography

Jordan Tyler Whitehead, born on the 18th of March, 1997 in Monaca, Pennsylvania, is a decorated American professional football player. Known widely as a determined, dynamic, and skilled player, Whitehead currently occupies the position of safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a team within the National Football League (NFL). Prior to this, Whitehead also took to the field wearing the colors of the University of Pittsburgh, contributing significantly to the Panthers’ success during his tenure.

Coming from a family with football pedigree, Whitehead showcased his promise from an early age. His first exposure to competitive football came during his time at Central Valley High School, Pennsylvania. His sheer talent and dedication were quickly recognized by his school and he would go on to become a starter from his freshman year itself. Owing to his versatility, Whitehead took on roles on both sides of the ball during high school games. By his senior year, Whitehead would amass an impressive 24 passes for 471 yards and rush for an astounding 1,933 yards on 148 attempts. His track record would go even more impressive with a total of 35 touchdowns, 97 tackles, and seven interceptions.

Finalizing his commitment to play football at the University of Pittsburgh on October 3, 2014, Jordan Whitehead began his college football career. Stepping into his newfound role of true freshman in 2015, Jordan played in all 13 of Pittsburgh’s games, starting in the final 12. His offensive game tallied 12 carries for 122 yards, resulting in two touchdowns. On the defensive end, Jordan boasted 108 tackles, an interception, six pass deflections, and a remarkable fumble recovery. His performance earned him the title of the ACC’s Rookie of the Year and Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association, recognition as ACC’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, and a place in the All-American Team by USA Today.

In 2016, following a strong freshman season, Jordan played in Pitt’s first nine games but unfortunately missed the last three due to injury, during these nine games he managed 65 tackles, an intercepted return for a touchdown, two pass deflections and a forced fumble with rushing for 98 yards on nine attempts. Despite missing games, he was awarded a spot on the second-team all ACC reflecting his inherent talent.

The subsequent year, 2017, saw the then junior miss the first three games for Pitt but play in the last nine. His defense stats screamed of his commitment to the game with 60 tackles, four pass deflections, and an interception. On offense, he ran the ball 22 times for 142 yards and caught two passes for seven yards. At the close of the season, he decided to declare for the 2018 NFL draft, giving up his senior year.

Whitehead’s strong performance at Pittsburgh had piqued the interest of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who selected him as the 10th safety in the 2018 NFL Draft. On May 10, 2018, the Buccaneers signed Whitehead to a four-year, $3.12 million contract that includes a signing bonus of $667,257. He proved his worth during the Buccaneers’ season opener, which was a 48-40 victory against the New Orleans Saints.

Whitehead’s NFL career took off during his remarkable rookie season in 2018 with 76 combined tackles (61 solo) and four pass deflections in 15 games and 11 starts. However, his significant momentum took a hit when he was placed on injured reserve due to hamstring injury in December of 2019, which cut short his second professional season tallying with 69 tackles, nine pass deflections, one interception, and one fumble recovery.

Post his recovery, he came back stronger to record his first career sack and various interceptions during 2022 against Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and the Rams. The most remarkable highlight of his career came at the NFC Championship against the Green Bay Packers, where he forced a fumble that was picked up by his teammate leading to a 31-26 victory. This eventually led to his playing in Super Bowl LV and won a 31-9 victory which was a pinnacle of his career.

On March 17, 2022, Whitehead signed a rewarding two-year, $14.5 million contract with the New York Jets. In one of his performances, he intercepted Buffalo Bills’ quarterback Josh Allen three times earning him a $250,000 bonus and was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week.

Jordan Whitehead’s football lineage sees him as a cousin of the illustrious and former New York Jet, Darrelle Revis, who is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Even though he has achieved a lot professionally, Jordan continues to strive for more, dedicating his life to the sport that he loves. His journey in the world of American football is a testament to his passion, hard work, and talent.