Former Ashwaubenon QB gets taken in the fourth round by Jets
The excitement in James Morgan’s voice said it all.
When the New York Jets selected Morgan with the 125th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he was moments away from realizing a lifelong dream.
Before announcing the selection, Jets General Manager Joe Douglas called Morgan personally.
“You fired up?” — Joe Douglas
“Yes, sir. I’m extremely fired up.” — James Morgan
As Head Coach Adam Gase joined the call, Morgan made a promise to the organization:
“You guys are not going to regret this.”
And before hanging up, he was already thinking ahead.
“Let’s get into the playbook, huh?” — James Morgan
A Recruiting Journey Years in the Making
Morgan’s path to the NFL began long before draft day.
After graduating from Ashwaubenon High School in Wisconsin, he worked with Midwest Collegiate Prospects during the recruiting process before signing with Bowling Green University.
His dedication to football, academics, and preparation would eventually lead him to Florida International University (FIU), where he emerged as one of the nation’s most intriguing quarterback prospects.
The Ultimate Student of the Game
Those who know Morgan best weren’t surprised by his immediate focus on studying the Jets’ playbook.
According to his high school coach, Mark Jonas, Morgan and his father began reviewing the team’s offensive system almost immediately after draft day.
“He will not get outstudied. That I can tell you.” — Coach Mark Jonas
Morgan’s reputation as a tireless worker became one of his biggest strengths throughout the recruiting and draft process.
Why NFL Teams Loved James Morgan
NFL evaluators praised Morgan for his combination of physical tools, intelligence, and leadership.
Strengths
- Elite arm strength
- High football IQ
- Strong pocket presence
- Leadership qualities
- Exceptional work ethic
- Competitive mindset
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. was particularly impressed.
“Very competitive, very smart, has great football IQ. Great kid, works hard, loves to study the game.” — Mel Kiper Jr.
The Jets agreed.
General Manager Joe Douglas cited Morgan’s intelligence, size, and developmental upside as major reasons for selecting him.
Success at Florida International
After beginning his college career at Bowling Green, Morgan transferred to FIU, where he flourished.
Career Highlights at FIU
- Led FIU to a school-record nine-win season
- Threw for more than 5,300 yards in two seasons
- Accounted for 40 touchdown passes
- Started every regular-season game during his final two years
- Earned an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl
NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah was impressed by Morgan’s performance during all-star week.
“He showed up at the East-West Shrine Game and was clearly the best quarterback in attendance.” — Daniel Jeremiah
Ashwaubenon Roots
Long before the NFL came calling, Morgan built an impressive high school career at Ashwaubenon.
High School Accomplishments
- 5,964 passing yards
- 60 touchdown passes
- Two-time team captain
- Two-time conference offensive player of the year
- Honorable Mention All-State selection
- State champion 4×400 relay team member
His athleticism extended beyond football, posting a 4.89-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.
Opportunity Earned
Morgan’s journey is a testament to preparation, perseverance, and belief in the recruiting process.
“I think my top strength is really my preparation.” — James Morgan
From a high school recruit working with Midwest Collegiate Prospects to an NFL Draft selection, Morgan’s story demonstrates what can happen when talent meets opportunity and relentless work ethic.
A Proud Moment
Coach Mark Jonas perhaps summed it up best:
“He’s getting an opportunity that very, very, very few people in the world get, and we couldn’t be prouder of him.”