Former Texas Longhorn and NFL receiver Jordan Shipley is in critical but stable condition after suffering severe burns in a ranching accident in Burnet, Texas, his family says.
Former Texas Longhorns wide receiver and NFL player Jordan Shipley remains in critical but stable condition after a serious accident on his ranch in Burnet, Texas, his family and the University of Texas athletic department confirmed.
The 40-year-old was injured Tuesday when a machine he was operating on his ranch caught fire, causing severe burns over a significant portion of his body, according to family statements.
Shipley was initially taken to a local hospital by one of his ranch workers before being airlifted to a medical facility in Austin for advanced treatment.
Accident Details and Family Statement
Shipley’s family released a statement saying he was working on equipment on his property when the incident occurred.
Although he was able to escape the blaze, he sustained “severe burns on his body” in the process, the statement said. After being transported locally, he was flown by helicopter to an Austin hospital, where he remains under close care.
In additional detail shared by his brother, Shipley suffered third-degree burns on roughly 20% of his body, and the family has asked fans and the public for prayers for his recovery as he faces ongoing treatment, risks of infection, and potential surgeries ahead.
Football Career and Legacy
Shipley was one of the most productive receivers in Texas Longhorns history.
During his college career from 2006–2009, he set multiple records, including single-season receptions (116) and receiving yards (1,489), and finished as the Longhorns’ career leader in receptions (248) and second in receiving yards (3,191).
His standout performance earned him All-America honors, and he was drafted in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals.
Shipley played three seasons in the NFL, spending time with the Bengals, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, recording 79 receptions for 858 yards and 4 touchdowns.
After retiring from professional football in 2014, Shipley stayed connected to his roots in Texas. He and his brother operate Shipley Ranches, a family farm and real estate business, and he’s remained a beloved figure among Longhorns fans.
Family Appeals for Prayers as Treatment Continues
In the wake of the accident, Shipley’s brother, Jaxon Shipley, shared a heartfelt message on social media asking for prayers and support, stating that his brother’s life was “spared today by the grace of God and the sheer will to live,” and asking that people pray for healing and the avoidance of complications such as infections.
The Shipley family has requested privacy and goodwill as Jordan continues treatment, a process that is expected to be long and challenging given the severity of his burns.
Jordan Shipley’s accident has shocked the Texas football community and beyond, eliciting widespread concern from fans, former teammates, and peers across college and NFL circles.
While he remains in critical condition, the “stable” status and family support provide a hopeful tone amid a difficult situation.
As he continues to recover in Austin, the outpouring of support and prayer reflects the deep connection Shipley forged as one of the Longhorns’ most productive receivers and a respected professional athlete.
