Darrell Jackson Jr. (born April 28, 2003) is an American professional football defensive tackle for the New York Jets of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Florida State Seminoles, Maryland Terrapins and Miami Hurricanes. Jackson was selected by the Jets in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL draft.
Early life Jackson Jr. attended Gadsden County High School in Havana, Florida.From an expelled student to an scholarship athlete: Darrell Jackson He played defensive tackle, defensive end and tight end in high school. He committed to the University of Maryland, College Park to play college football.
College career As a true freshman at Maryland in 2021, Jackson Jr. played in all 13 games with one start and had 22 tackles. After one year at Maryland, he transferred to the University of Miami.One of Miami’s longest-limbed, largest Canes is a ‘lean’ run-stuffer (and friend to DEs) In his lone year at Miami, he started all 12 games and had 27 tackles and three sacks.Unexpected farewell: Miami starting DT Darrell Jackson Jr. entering transfer portal After the season, Jackson Jr. transferred to Florida State University.Florida State football: Seminoles add Miami Hurricanes' transfer DT Darrell Jackson'It feels amazing': New Florida State DT Darrell Jackson Jr. excited to be close to home He was forced to sit out the season by the NCAA after he was denied a hardship waiver request, but was eligible to play in a bowl game.NCAA denies Darrell Jackson Jr. hardship waiver request'Postseason a reality' for this ineligible Florida State football defensive lineman His only game of the season came in the 2023 Orange Bowl, where he recorded six tackles. Jackson Jr. returned to Florida State in 2024.
Professional career
Jackson was selected by the New York Jets in the fourth round with the 103rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
References
External links
New York Jets bio Maryland Terrapins bio Miami Hurricanes bio Florida State Seminoles bio