Middle Tennessee State University's football program will have a strong presence in Super Bowl 58, set for February 11th in Las Vegas. Four former Blue Raiders will be on the rosters, with three representing the Kansas City Chiefs: Darius Harris (2015-18), Richie James (2015-17), and Izaiah Gathings (2021-22). Meanwhile, Charvarius Ward (2016-17) will play for the San Francisco 49ers.
This marks Ward's third Super Bowl appearance and a chance to win his second title with a different team. He previously won Super Bowl 54 with Kansas City and was part of the team that reached Super Bowl 55. As a starting cornerback, Ward has tallied 72 tackles, five interceptions, and a forced fumble this season.
James, a wide receiver for the Chiefs, has 10 receptions for 114 yards in his sixth year as a pro. Harris, a linebacker, rejoined the Chiefs' roster in October from the Las Vegas practice squad and made five regular-season appearances, recording 43 tackles. Rookie wide receiver Gathings is currently on the Chiefs' practice squad.
Murfreesboro will also be represented in the Super Bowl by Jauan Jennings, a former Blackman and Tennessee standout playing for the 49ers. Jennings, drafted in the seventh round in 2020, had one reception for eight yards in the AFC Championship game and totals 19 receptions for 265 yards and a touchdown this season, with 78 receptions for 963 yards and seven touchdowns over three seasons.
