Jordan Matthews named to SEC Football Legends
Before playing at Vanderbilt and in the NFL, Matthews was a star player at Madison Academy
MADISON – Jordan Matthews is already a legend at his high school alma mater, Madison Academy, where there’s a plaque on display signifying his excellent play for the Mustangs. Also on display is a jersey he wore and autographed from among his later 11-year career in the National Football League.
In between those two steps of his journey in football, Matthews (6-foot-3, 210 pounds) rewrote the record books while playing in the Southeastern Conference for the Vanderbilt Commodores. His talents were so masterful, he has been named to the SEC Football Legends class of 2025.
In a celebrated ceremony surrounding the SEC Football Championship Game in Atlanta in December, the Football Legends included 16 former stars who excelled on the gridiron and helped write the rich history of SEC football. For Matthews, the wide receiver for Vanderbilt 20102013, he set SEC records in career receptions, receiving yards and TD catches. Those marks still stand today.
During his time as a Commodore, Matthews set marks in pass catching including season (112) and career (262).
In four years wearing the black and gold of the university located in the heart of Nashville, Tenn., Matthews recorded 3,759 total receiving yards including 19 100-plus yard games. The two-time All-SEC selection and team captain also earned All-American honors. He capped his college play as Most Valuable Player of the 2013 BBVA Compass Bowl and represented Vandy at the 2014 Senior Bowl.
Selected the 42nd overall pick in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, the Huntsville native played 11 seasons in the NFL among four teams.
This past October, Matthews was named Vandy’s football offensive consultant. The celebrated athlete has been active in several leadership and community service projects during his career, which began during his time at Madison Academy where he was named All-State in football, but also was a star player for the school’s basketball team. His place among the private school’s rich history is celebrated with his own display among the school’s athletic trophy cases.
