John Stephens Jr. Bio
John Stephens Jr. (born September 23, 1999) is an American professional football tight end. He played college football for the TCU Horned Frogs and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns before signing with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent following the 2023 NFL draft.
Early Life and Background
John Stephens Jr. was born in Logansport, Louisiana, USA. He attended Logansport High School, a small school with an enrollment of just 175 students, where he played as a two-way player at wide receiver and defensive lineman. During his senior year, he recorded 1,001 receiving yards, 17 touchdowns, and 64 solo tackles, contributing to his team’s 13-1 record and advancement to the state semifinals.
Path to American Football
Stephens accepted a football scholarship to Texas Christian University (TCU). As a true freshman, he played in eight games off the bench, making two receptions for 58 yards, including a 47-yard catch against the University of Oklahoma. In his sophomore year, he appeared in 12 games with 11 receptions for 157 yards, highlighted by three catches for 40 yards against Texas Tech University. After limited play as a junior, he transferred to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette to continue his college career.
John Stephens Jr. Career
Early Career (2017–2020)
At TCU, Stephens showed promise as a receiver but saw reduced playing time in his junior year. His early college career was marked by steady development and contributions in key games.
Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns Era (2021–2022)
After transferring, Stephens had a productive senior season in 2021 with 13 receptions for 167 yards and four touchdowns. He had notable performances against Nicholls State University and Ohio University. In 2022, as a super senior, he served as a backup wide receiver, compiling 14 receptions for 284 yards and three touchdowns, including a standout game against Eastern Michigan University with 103 yards and a touchdown.
Dallas Cowboys Era (2023–Present)
Stephens signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in May 2023 and was converted to a tight end during training camp. He was trending toward making the roster before suffering an ACL injury in the second preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks, which placed him on injured reserve. In October 2024, he suffered another torn ACL in practice, ending his season. He was waived in August 2025, reverted to injured reserve, and was released with an injury settlement in November 2025.
Driving Style and Strengths
Stephens is known for his versatility, having played both wide receiver and tight end positions. His height and athleticism allow him to be a reliable target in the passing game, while his experience on defense in high school adds to his physicality and understanding of the game.
Notable Events and Milestones
A significant moment in Stephens’s career was his position change to tight end with the Dallas Cowboys, demonstrating adaptability. Unfortunately, his progress has been hampered by consecutive ACL injuries early in his professional career.
John Stephens Jr. Career Wins
While Stephens has not yet recorded professional wins or awards, his college career featured several key performances and touchdowns that highlighted his potential as a receiver and tight end.
College Highlights
Stephens’s college career included multiple games with multiple touchdowns, such as his senior year at Louisiana where he scored four touchdowns and had several games with over 40 receiving yards. His ability to contribute in critical moments was evident throughout his collegiate tenure.
Other Wins & Performances
At Logansport High School, Stephens was instrumental in leading his team to a 13-1 record and a state semifinal appearance, showcasing his early impact on the field.
John Stephens Jr. Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
John Stephens Jr. is the son of former NFL running back John Stephens. His half-sister is Sloane Stephens, the 2017 U.S. Open tennis champion, indicating a family with a strong athletic pedigree.
Personal Life
Details about Stephens’s personal life, including marital status or children, are not publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season was challenging for John Stephens Jr. due to injury setbacks. After suffering two ACL tears, he was waived by the Dallas Cowboys and later released with an injury settlement. His recovery and future prospects remain to be seen as he works to return to professional football.