Gary Jennings Jr. (born October 14, 1997) is an American former professional football wide receiver. He played college football for the West Virginia Mountaineers and was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Early Life and College Career
Jennings attended Stafford Senior High School in Stafford, Virginia, where he was a multi-sport athlete in football, basketball, and track and field. He committed to play college football at West Virginia University.
During his collegiate career with the West Virginia Mountaineers from 2015 to 2018, Jennings became a prominent offensive threat. His most productive seasons were in 2017 and 2018. In his senior year (2018), he recorded 54 receptions for 917 yards and 13 touchdowns, contributing significantly to West Virginia's high-powered offense. He finished his college career with 168 receptions, 2,294 receiving yards, and 16 touchdowns.
Professional Career
Jennings was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round (120th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft. He signed his rookie contract with the team in May 2019.
His time in the NFL included stints with several organizations:
- Seattle Seahawks (2019): Jennings spent a short time with the Seahawks before being traded.
- Miami Dolphins (2019): He was traded to the Dolphins in October 2019. He made his NFL debut with the Dolphins.
- Indianapolis Colts (2020): Jennings signed with the Colts' practice squad in September 2020 and was elevated to the active roster for one game.
- Buffalo Bills (2021): He was signed to the Bills' practice squad in January 2021.
- Las Vegas Raiders (2021): Jennings signed with the Raiders' practice squad later in 2021.
Jennings' professional career was impacted by injuries and a competitive league environment, limiting his on-field appearances in regular-season games.
References
- NFL.com Player Profile
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
- West Virginia Mountaineers Football History