Texas Tech’s Jack Burgess Stuns Football World With Shocking Career Move
LUBBOCK, TX — In a move that has left the college football world reeling, Texas Tech’s Australian-American phenom Jack Burgess has announced a dramatic and unexpected career decision that has sent shockwaves through the Red Raiders program and beyond.
The 22-year-old dual-sport athlete, who skyrocketed to fame over the past two seasons with his blistering speed, pinpoint punting, and uncanny ability to read the game, revealed at a surprise press conference that he is leaving college football to sign a multi-year contract with the Sydney Swans in the AFL (Australian Football League).
“I’ve always said I follow the game where my heart leads me,” Burgess stated, standing beside head coach Joey McGuire, who looked visibly stunned. “Texas Tech gave me a family and a platform. But this is about legacy, about home. I’m going back to Australia to chase a different kind of greatness.”
Head coach McGuire, known for his energetic leadership and unwavering support for his players, was nearly speechless.
“Jack’s a generational talent. We thought he might go first round in the NFL Draft, or at worst become the most dangerous special teams player in the Big 12 for another season,” McGuire said. “But Australia? The AFL? Man… didn’t see that coming.”
Burgess, born in Brisbane and raised between Melbourne and Dallas, had always maintained dual citizenship. His early teens were spent training in both rugby and Aussie rules before a high school football coach in Texas noticed his monster leg at a track meet. What followed was a meteoric rise: All-State honors, a four-star recruiting ranking, and eventually a full ride to Texas Tech.
Over two seasons, Burgess became a highlight machine. His hybrid role as a return specialist, wide receiver, and punter made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing coaches. In 2024, he set a Texas Tech record with four punt return touchdowns in a single season and averaged 47.8 yards per punt — second-best in the nation.
And yet, the call of home never left him.
“I’ve been talking with the Swans for months,” Burgess admitted. “They’ve built something special, and they believe I can bring something new to the code. My experience here — the toughness, the tempo, the tactics — it’s going with me.”
While fans took to social media with a mix of heartbreak and admiration, analysts speculated that Burgess’s departure could usher in a new era of transcontinental crossover between the NCAA and international sports leagues. Already, whispers are emerging of AFL scouts paying closer attention to college football’s special teams units.
Back in Lubbock, the locker room is still processing the news.
“He’s our brother,” said quarterback Trey Coleman. “But damn… Australia’s gaining a legend. We’ll miss you, Jack.”
With fall camp set to begin next week, Coach McGuire confirmed that Texas Tech would look inward to replace Burgess’s production, but added, “There’s no replacing a Jack Burgess. You just turn the page and hope the story stays exciting.”
One thing is certain — whether it’s in a packed Jones AT&T Stadium or the Sydney Cricket Ground, Jack Burgess was made for the spotlight.
