In the world of professional football, talent can come from unexpected places. D'Marco Jackson, the 6'1, 233-pound linebacker out of Appalachian State, is a prime example of this. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, Jackson has quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional skills and determination on the field.
Before his NFL career, Jackson had already left a lasting impact on the college football scene. In his final season with the Mountaineers, he was named the Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year and earned a spot on the First Team All-Sun Belt. These accolades showcased his exceptional abilities and set the stage for his entry into the NFL.
During offseason activities with the Saints, D'Marco Jackson wasted no time in catching the attention of coaches and fans alike. He displayed incredible speed, agility, and instincts, particularly in coverage against running backs and tight ends. His ability to swiftly move around the field and disrupt offensive plays was evident from the start.
Unfortunately, Jackson's promising start hit a roadblock when he was placed on injured reserve on August 9th of last year. While it was a setback for his rookie season, it allowed him to focus on his recovery and come back even stronger for the upcoming season.
Heading into the 2023 NFL season, the Saints will be looking for D'Marco Jackson to fill the void left by linebacker Kaden Elliss, who signed a lucrative deal with the Atlanta Falcons. Elliss had an outstanding season last year, accumulating 78 tackles and 7 sacks, making him a key contributor to the Saints' defense. The pressure is on Jackson to step up and demonstrate that he is capable of carrying on Elliss's success.
Fortunately for Jackson, he possesses all the necessary tools to thrive in his new role. His athletic traits, which surpass even those of his predecessor, make him a force to be reckoned with on the field. His explosiveness, combined with his exceptional coverage skills, will make him a valuable asset for the Saints' defense.
Moreover, D'Marco Jackson is fortunate to have a strong support system around him. Mentors like DeMario Davis and emerging star Pete Werner provide him with valuable guidance and expertise. DeMario Davis, a seasoned veteran, has established himself as one of the best linebackers in the NFC. Having someone of Davis's caliber to learn from will undoubtedly benefit Jackson's development as a professional.
Additionally, the emergence of Pete Werner adds another layer of support for Jackson. Werner has proven himself as a formidable linebacker and has quickly become one of the rising stars on the Saints' defense. With the combined knowledge and experience of Davis and Werner, Jackson has access to valuable resources to further refine his skills.
Throughout the offseason, D'Marco Jackson has continued to impress. His explosiveness and dedication to improving his craft have been on full display during OTAs. The Saints' coaching staff and teammates have taken notice of his relentless work ethic and potential, further solidifying his place in the team's future plans.
As the 2023 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on D'Marco Jackson. His journey from a fifth-round pick to a player with immense potential and high expectations is a testament to his talent and determination. With the right guidance, support, and his own drive for success, Jackson has the opportunity to become a standout linebacker in the league and make a significant impact for the New Orleans Saints.
Comments