Jalen Hurd, born on January 23, 1996 in Hendersonville, Tennessee, is a former football player who made a name for himself as a standout tailback for the University of Tennessee Volunteers.
Hurd was a highly touted five-star recruit out of Beech Senior High School in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was ranked as the #33 national prospect and the #1 prospect in Tennessee. This recognition drew the attention of college football programs across the country, but ultimately, Hurd decided to stay close to home and play for the Volunteers.
During his freshman year at Tennessee, Hurd quickly made an impact on the field. He earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors during the 2014 season and was named a 2014 Campus Insiders Honorable Mention Freshman All-American. Hurd's versatility was on full display as he finished the season with 1,120 all-purpose yards.
As a freshman, Hurd started in 9 out of 13 games for Tennessee, showcasing his talent and potential as a key player for the team. He played under head coach Butch Jones, who helped guide him through the early stages of his collegiate career.
Off the field, Hurd credits much of his success to his supportive family. He is the son of Tara Smotherman and Jay Hurd, who have been instrumental in his development both as a player and as a person.
Throughout his time at Tennessee, Hurd became a fan favorite for his explosive playmaking abilities and his dedication to the team. His impact on the program was undeniable, and he left a lasting legacy as one of the standout athletes in Volunteer history.
After a successful college career, Hurd announced his decision to forego his senior season and enter the 2018 NFL Draft. Despite facing challenges and adversity along the way, Hurd remained resilient and determined to pursue his dream of playing at the highest level.
As he embarks on the next chapter of his football journey, Jalen Hurd will continue to inspire young athletes and fans alike with his work ethic, passion for the game, and unwavering commitment to excellence.