Zech McPhearson Bio
Zech McPhearson is an American professional football cornerback who was born on March 21, 1998, in Baltimore, Maryland. He played college football primarily for the Texas Tech Red Raiders after transferring from Penn State University. McPhearson was selected in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played until 2023. His football background is notable for having a family rich in athletic talent, and after a significant injury, he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Early Life and Background
Zech McPhearson grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, where he attended Riverdale Baptist High School. His early exposure to sports came from a family deeply involved in athletics. His father, Gerrick McPhearson, earned a tryout for the New England Patriots as a defensive back, while his mother, Kim McPhearson, played in the National Women’s Football League. This environment fostered his passion for football from a young age. After high school, he pursued his education and football career at Penn State University before transferring to Texas Tech University, where he found greater success on the field.
Path to American Football
McPhearson’s college football career began at Penn State, where he played for two seasons. During his time there, he appeared in a total of nine games and recorded 14 tackles. However, seeking more playing time and opportunities, he transferred to Texas Tech University. At Texas Tech, he made a significant impact, starting all 12 games in his junior year and achieving 51 tackles, including two blocked kicks. In his senior season, he continued to excel, starting nine games and accumulating 53 tackles and four interceptions. His outstanding performance earned him recognition as a first-team All-Big 12 selection by various organizations.
Zech McPhearson Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
Zech McPhearson was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, being the 123rd overall pick. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the team on June 3, 2021. In his second season, McPhearson made a notable impact on special teams, earning the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week award in Week 1 of the 2022 season after making two special teams tackles and recovering an onside kick in a victory against the Detroit Lions. Unfortunately, during a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns in 2023, McPhearson suffered a torn Achilles tendon, which ended his season prematurely. He was waived by the Eagles on August 27, 2024.
Breakthrough (2024-2025)
After being waived by the Philadelphia Eagles, Zech McPhearson signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 10, 2024, joining their practice squad. He later signed a reserve/future contract with the Jaguars on January 6, 2025. However, his time with the team was marred by injuries, as he was placed on injured reserve on August 13, 2025, and subsequently released on August 19, 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, McPhearson has made significant contributions on the field, particularly in special teams. His recognition as a first-team All-Big 12 player and his performance in the NFL highlight his capabilities as a cornerback.
Zech McPhearson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Zech McPhearson has received recognition for his performance on the field, including being named first-team All-Big 12 in 2020.
Zech McPhearson Awards Won
While McPhearson has not won any major awards in the NFL, his selection as first-team All-Big 12 showcases his talent and contributions during his college career.
Zech McPhearson Family
Zech McPhearson comes from a family with a rich athletic background. His father, Gerrick McPhearson, had aspirations in professional football, and his mother, Kim, played in the National Women’s Football League. His siblings have also pursued sports at various levels, with several playing football at collegiate or professional levels, highlighting the family’s deep-rooted connection to athletics.
Personal Life
Details about Zech McPhearson’s personal life are limited, but it is known that he has a close-knit family with a shared passion for sports. His family’s history of athletic achievement has undoubtedly influenced his career in football.