Jordan Pugh, a former NFL player who grew up in Plano, Texas, recently started a new youth football team called Team PPT to help develop high school players on and off the field.
After retiring from a 5-year professional career, Pugh opened a training facility to work with football players. Seeing talented teens struggle for exposure and college opportunities inspired him to create this team. Specifically, two players from Plano West, Charlie Johnson, and Plano East Ishmael Mahdi, motivated Pugh to help athletes in their shoes.
The team competes in national football games to give players critical tackle football experience and recruiting visibility. Pugh stresses proper technique over size or strength, focusing on hand, foot, and hip work. He also oversees the players’ academic and character development through his organization, PPT Elite.
The landscape for high school recruits has changed dramatically since Pugh’s days. Scholarships are far more limited, with maybe 5-10 players from Texas high schools now earning spots at top NCAA programs. Game film is hugely important, with coaches deciding on players in just the first three plays.
PPT Elite prepares athletes for this process, connecting them with college coaches and visits. The team travels nationally to compete against other elite recruits. While the transfer portal provides opportunities, Pugh cautions players to carefully manage relationships when switching schools.
Pugh aims to educate and develop the next generation of football talent. By mentoring players on and off the field, he hopes to help more athletes land college scholarships and opportunities.