Tyrone Swoopes, the former University of Texas quarterback known for his role in the Longhorns’ memorable “18-wheeler package,” has been named the new tight ends coach at Lindale High School in East Texas.
Swoopes, 30, joins the Lindale Eagles after a football journey that took him from small-town stardom to the national spotlight. A native of Whitewright, Texas, Swoopes was a four-star recruit and one of the top quarterback prospects in the country before signing with Texas in 2013. He played under coaches Mack Brown and Charlie Strong, starting 12 games in his sophomore season and finishing his college career with over 2,400 passing yards and 13 touchdowns that year.
While Swoopes’ time as Texas’ starting quarterback was marked by ups and downs, he became a fan favorite for his power running in short-yardage situations. The “18-wheeler package,” designed to leverage his 6-foot-4, 249-pound frame, produced some of the program’s most memorable moments, including a game-winning overtime touchdown against Notre Dame in 2016.
After college, Swoopes transitioned to tight end and signed with the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2017. He spent time with the Seahawks, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Football Team, appearing in six NFL games and recording two receptions for 28 yards before retiring in 2021.
Swoopes began his coaching career at Tom Bean High School, a Class 2A rival of his alma mater, before accepting the position at Lindale, which competes in the larger and more competitive Class 4A division. Lindale finished last season with a 6-6 record and a second-round playoff appearance, and the community is optimistic that Swoopes’ experience will provide a boost to the program.
“We’re more than excited to add Tyrone Swoopes to the Lindale Eagle Family,” Lindale Football posted on social media. “His experience and knowledge will be an invaluable asset to our kids.”
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Former Longhorns QB Tyrone Swoopes lands new Texas HS Football job
Reporting by Hayden Victoria, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
