Jordan Armand Matthews Bio
Jordan Armand Matthews is an American professional football tight end born on July 16, 1992, in Madison, Alabama. He began his NFL career as a wide receiver after being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Matthews transitioned to the tight end position after the 2020 season, demonstrating his adaptability and skill on the field.
Early Life and Background
Jordan Matthews was born and raised in Madison, Alabama, where he attended Madison Academy. There, he excelled in both football and basketball, lettering in both sports. As a senior, he led his high school football team to a 12–1 record, finishing his high school career with 181 receptions, 3,218 receiving yards, and 38 touchdowns. Matthews was a three-star recruit and initially planned to walk on at Auburn University before receiving a scholarship offer from Vanderbilt University. He committed to Vanderbilt on December 26, 2009.
Path to American Football
Matthews’ collegiate career at Vanderbilt was marked by significant achievements. As a true freshman, he recorded 15 receptions for 181 yards and four touchdowns. His performance improved steadily, and by his junior year, he was a first-team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) selection and a third-team All-American. In his senior year, Matthews set SEC records for career receptions and receiving yards, earning first-team All-American honors from multiple organizations. He graduated with a degree in economics, leaving Vanderbilt as the school’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns.
Jordan Armand Matthews Career
Early Career (2014–2016)
Matthews was selected 42nd overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2014 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract and quickly made an impact, scoring his first two career touchdowns in a Week 3 game against the Washington Redskins. His rookie season ended with 67 receptions for 872 yards and eight touchdowns. In his second season, Matthews improved his performance with 85 receptions for 997 yards and eight touchdowns, including a standout game against the Atlanta Falcons with 10 receptions for 102 yards.
Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills (2017–2018)
In August 2017, Matthews was traded to the Buffalo Bills. He debuted with the Bills in September 2017, recording two receptions for 61 yards. Matthews caught his first touchdown for Buffalo in an upset win over the Atlanta Falcons but suffered a thumb injury that required surgery. He finished the season with 25 receptions for 282 yards and one touchdown. In 2018, Matthews signed a one-year contract with the New England Patriots but was released due to a hamstring injury. He then re-signed with the Eagles later that year, contributing 20 catches for 300 yards and two touchdowns.
San Francisco 49ers Era (2019–2022)
Matthews signed with the San Francisco 49ers in 2019. Although initially released during final roster cuts, he was re-signed and contributed to the team during the season. He was part of the 49ers roster when they reached Super Bowl LIV. After the 2020 season, Matthews transitioned from wide receiver to tight end, adding 30 pounds to adapt to the new role. He re-signed with the 49ers in 2021 but suffered a torn ACL in practice in 2022, which ended his season.
Carolina Panthers Era (2023–Present)
Matthews joined the Carolina Panthers practice squad in October 2023 and was promoted to the active roster in November. Throughout 2023 and into 2024, he experienced multiple roster moves between the practice squad and active roster. He signed reserve/future contracts with the Panthers but was released in May 2025.
Playing Style and Strengths
Jordan Matthews is known for his versatility, having successfully transitioned from wide receiver to tight end. His height and physicality allow him to be a reliable target in the passing game, while his experience as a receiver contributes to his route-running and catching abilities. His adaptability and work ethic have been key strengths throughout his career.
Notable Events and Milestones
Matthews set SEC records for career receptions and receiving yards during his college career. In the NFL, he recorded multiple seasons with high reception and yardage totals, including nearly 1,000 receiving yards in 2015. His transition to tight end after the 2020 season marked a significant career milestone, showcasing his commitment to evolving as a player.
Jordan Armand Matthews Career Wins
While Jordan Matthews’ career is primarily measured by his receptions, yards, and touchdowns rather than wins, he has contributed to team successes including playoff appearances with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. His individual performances have been integral in key games throughout his career.
College Career Highlights
Matthews finished his collegiate career with 262 receptions for 3,759 yards, both SEC and Vanderbilt records. He was a two-time first-team All-SEC selection and a first-team All-American in 2013. His 112 receptions in his senior year set the SEC single-season record at the time.
Professional Highlights
Matthews recorded career highs in the NFL during the 2015 season with 85 receptions and 997 yards. He scored multiple touchdowns in several games and was a reliable target for his quarterbacks. His ability to adapt to the tight end position later in his career demonstrates his professional growth.
Jordan Armand Matthews Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Jordan Matthews is the son of Rod and Brenda Matthews and has one brother named Justin. He is related to Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice through his mother, who is Rice’s cousin.
Personal Life
Matthews is married to Cheyna Williams, a professional soccer player who attended Vanderbilt and Florida State University. The couple has two sons. Matthews is a Christian and is involved in charitable activities, including hosting charity softball games to support organizations fighting domestic violence.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, Jordan Matthews remains with the Carolina Panthers organization. He has experienced multiple roster transitions between the practice squad and active roster. His role as a tight end continues to evolve as he works to contribute to the team’s offensive schemes. Matthews’ experience and versatility provide valuable depth to the Panthers’ roster as he aims to make an impact in the upcoming season.