Written by Swikriti

Former Texas Longhorns and NFL wide receiver Jordan Shipley is in critical but stable condition at an Austin hospital after suffering severe burns in a fire-related accident on his family’s ranch near Burnet, Texas.

What the family said

In a statement released Tuesday night, Shipley’s family explained that the accident happened while he was operating a machine on the ranch. The equipment reportedly caught fire, and although Shipley was able to get out, he sustained serious burns before reaching safety.

The statement said Shipley was able to reach one of his ranch workers, who drove him to a local hospital. He was then care-flighted to Austin, where he remains under close medical care. The family also asked for continued prayers as he recovers.

How serious are the injuries?

Multiple reports indicate Shipley suffered third-degree burns on around (or over) 20% of his body. While no additional medical specifics have been released publicly, the “critical but stable” description suggests he is being monitored in a high-acuity setting while doctors manage burn treatment and the risk of complications.

For the original report and ongoing updates, see this Yahoo Sports update .

A Longhorns career that fans still talk about

Shipley is one of the most celebrated receivers in Texas football history. He became a household name during the Mack Brown era, forming a standout partnership with quarterback Colt McCoy and building a résumé packed with record-setting production.

His senior year in 2009 remains his signature season: Shipley earned All-American honors after posting massive totals as Texas won the Big 12 and reached the national title game. He also produced several of the school’s most enduring receiving marks, including single-season and single-game milestones.

Key college highlights

• All-American (2009) in a national-title run
• Record-setting receiving production across his Texas career
• Iconic moment in the 2008 Red River Shootout, including a famous kick-return touchdown that remains a rivalry staple

NFL career: drafted, then flashes as a rookie

Shipley was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft (No. 84 overall). He appeared in 24 NFL games across three seasons, with the bulk of his production coming during his rookie year, when he quickly established himself as a reliable target.

Over his pro career, he totaled roughly 78–79 receptions for 858 yards with a handful of touchdowns, before his playing days ended earlier than many expected.

What happens next

As Shipley remains in critical care, the focus is on stabilization, burn treatment, and preventing infection and other complications that often come with severe burn injuries. Support for Shipley has continued to spread across the Texas football community, with fans and former teammates rallying behind the family’s request for prayers.

Updates are expected as the family shares more information in the coming days.