HOUSTON, Texas – Former quarterback Luke McCaffrey’s journey from college football to the NFL took an unexpected turn when he decided to transition to a wide receiver position. After stops at Nebraska, Louisville, and Rice, McCaffrey approached Rice Owls head coach Mike Bloomgren with the proposal, which ultimately led to his selection as a receiver in the NFL Draft.

The Washington Commanders surprised many by choosing McCaffrey as the final pick of the third round, marking an early selection compared to most projections placing him as a candidate for the later rounds. Throughout his college career, McCaffrey exhibited his versatility on the field, showcasing his talent with impressive stats of 58 receptions for 723 yards and six touchdowns in 2022, followed by 71 receptions for 992 yards and 13 touchdowns the following season.

Adam Peters, the General Manager of the Commanders, had a personal connection to the McCaffrey family through his previous stint with the San Francisco 49ers. McCaffrey’s father, Ed, a former NFL player, was a third-round pick for the New York Giants in 1991, enjoying a successful 13-season career. Additionally, McCaffrey’s older brother, Christian, also made a name for himself in the NFL after being drafted by the Carolina Panthers and garnering recognition as the offensive player of the year for the 49ers in 2023.

This significant transition for Luke McCaffrey not only speaks to his adaptability as a player but also solidifies his family’s legacy within the realm of professional football. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, McCaffrey has the opportunity to make a name for himself and continue to uphold the high standard set by his family members in the NFL.