Mississippi State receiver Jordan Thompson Poised for Breakout Season Under Familiar Coaching
STARKVILLE, MS – Mississippi State wide receiver Jordan Thompson is quickly becoming a key leader for the Bulldogs, impressing coaches and teammates alike as fall camp intensifies. The senior transfer, who previously played under head coach Jeff Lebby at Oklahoma, is expected to play a significant role in the Bulldogs’ offensive attack this season.
Thompson’s arrival in Starkville represents more than just adding another player to the roster; it signifies a strategic move by Lebby to bring in a trusted and experienced veteran. Lebby publicly lauded Thompson’s character and work ethic after SEC Media Days in Atlanta last month, and reiterated those sentiments following a recent practice.
“I think he’s set the standard of how you should operate inside of the building as a transfer,” Lebby stated. “there’s not a better teammate. There’s not a guy that spends more time, that’s more accountable, that’s just serious about being great at everything that he does. He’s got this really mature personality. He’s an old soul, and this guy has done an unbelievable job of being a great teammate. he has really set the expectation for transfers and what it’s supposed to look like.”
Thompson’s collegiate career began at Oklahoma, where he showcased flashes of potential. In 2024, he started 10 games, finishing with 19 receptions for 230 yards and two touchdowns. The previous year,in 2023,he recorded 241 receiving yards and two touchdowns (63-yard and 53-yard scores) in just six games,despite battling injuries.While his opportunities were limited in Norman, Thompson consistently demonstrated an ability to create big plays.
The decision to transfer to Mississippi State was driven by a desire for a more prominent role in the offense. Lebby believes Thompson’s skillset is perfectly suited for the Bulldogs’ system. “I think when you go back and you watch the tape from last year, he’s open. A lot,” Lebby explained. “And when I had him two years ago, you know, he was banged up, but when we had him, he had production when he was able to play. I’m excited about the possibility he’s got.He’s got a chance to have a great year.”
A significant advantage Thompson possesses is his familiarity with Lebby’s playbook. He confirmed the system hasn’t changed as their time together at Oklahoma in 2023, allowing him to quickly integrate into the offense and become a valuable resource for other newcomers. Arriving in January, Thompson immediately began contributing as a leader, helping teammates grasp the complexities of the scheme.
“I see the details with everything,” Thompson said. “There were a lot of new people here in the spring, so not all of them understood the playbook fully, as it is indeed a lot. I think that even more now, transforming into fall camp, guys know what they’re doing. We’re playing fast, guys are playing faster and stronger, and I’m excited to see where it goes.”
Thompson joins a Mississippi State receiving corps that also includes fellow receivers Jaden Walley and Zavion Thomas. He was selected alongside quarterback Blake Shapen and linebacker Issac Smith to represent the team at SEC Media Days, further highlighting the coaching staff’s confidence in his leadership and potential. As the Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Thompson to see if he can unlock his full potential and become a cornerstone of the Mississippi State offense.
