Liberty Hill (TX) standout Jack Pitchford isn’t just a versatile athlete - he’s the kind of player who makes coaches rethink depth charts. At 6-foot-1, 195 pounds, Pitchford has lined up just about everywhere: quarterback, running back, wide receiver, defensive back, and return specialist. He’s the definition of a Swiss Army knife on the football field, and that all-around ability caught the attention of programs across the country.
Army, Air Force, Navy, and a host of Ivy League schools came calling, all offering full rides. So did TCU and Houston, among others. But in the end, Pitchford followed his heart - and his family - to Fort Worth, committing to TCU and reuniting with his older brother, Joe, a redshirt freshman for the Horned Frogs.
“I definitely struggled making the decision at first,” Pitchford admitted. “Air Force was heavily recruiting me, and all of the other offers were full scholarships.
But I was straight up with the other colleges - if I get TCU, I’m most likely going to take that. And that’s what happened.”
It’s not just about the logo on the helmet for Pitchford. It’s about family, familiarity, and the chance to compete at the highest level of college football - alongside his brother. The two shared the field for two seasons in high school, and the idea of doing it again at the collegiate level clearly carries weight.
“We’ve been talking about it. He’s excited to get to play with me again,” Pitchford said.
“We played two years of high school football together, and that was the most fun I’ve had. We’re both excited.”
Pitchford brings more than just versatility to the Frogs - he brings production. As a senior, he rushed for 484 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 37 carries, showing both explosiveness and efficiency. On the defensive side, he added 42 tackles and a pair of interceptions, earning District 11-5A-DII Most Valuable Player honors while helping Liberty Hill to a 9-3 record and a district title.
And it’s not just the film that jumps off the screen - the numbers back it up. With verified 10.64 speed in the 100-meter dash, Pitchford has the kind of track speed that translates to any position on the field. That speed, combined with his versatility, makes him an intriguing piece for the TCU coaching staff to mold.
“They told me that the best way to see the field early is special teams first,” Pitchford said. “Then pretty much I can compete for offense or defense.”
That’s a familiar path - and one he’s already seen work up close. His brother Joe carved out a role on special teams and has become a key contributor in certain offensive packages. That development didn’t go unnoticed.
“They definitely treat him good,” Jack said. “He had a spot on the roster, and he earned a scholarship.
I think the coaches have definitely given him the respect he deserves because he’s a very hard worker and great athlete. That definitely did influence my decision.”
For TCU, Pitchford represents more than just a talented recruit. He’s a high-upside, high-character athlete with the speed, skillset, and mentality to contribute in multiple phases of the game.
And for Jack, the opportunity to chase his dream while suiting up with his brother? That’s just the icing on the cake.