Texas adds to its NFL alumni list as undrafted playmaker who transferred under Steve Sarkisian finds new home
Back when Texas was under Tom Herman in 2019 and 2020, the Longhorns were able to score some interesting playmakers on the recruiting trail who thought he was going to have the program back at its peak. One of those big additions was quarterback Ja'Quinden Jackson. The four-star in-state prospect had the build and power […]
Back when Texas was under Tom Herman in 2019 and 2020, the Longhorns were able to score some interesting playmakers on the recruiting trail who thought he was going to have the program back at its peak. One of those big additions was quarterback Ja'Quinden Jackson.
The four-star in-state prospect had the build and power to be seen as a potential Dak Prescott-like project for Herman. However, when Herman was fired for Steve Sarkisian, the program lost some talent. Jackson was someone who became quite successful later.
While Jackson became a running back with Utah and Arkansas after leaving Texas, he carved out a productive career. This weekend, he signed an undrafted free agent contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
In the 2024 season, Jackson recorded 790 rushing yards on 149 attempts and scored 15 touchdowns, showcasing his ability as a dual-threat with an additional 139 receiving yards. His impressive performance earned him Second Team All-SEC recognition.
As a pivotal player in the Arkansas offense, Jackson truly excelled. Although his collegiate journey included several transfers, he began his career as a Longhorn.
He arrived in Austin in 2020, initially as a quarterback, but did not see any game action. He later shifted to a full-time running back position. After his time at Texas, he moved on to Utah before wrapping up his college career at Arkansas.
In high school, Jackson gained attention as a standout quarterback, leading Duncanville (in the Dallas-Fort Worth area) to consecutive Texas state championship games, which made him one of the most interesting prospects of his class.
Now with the Jaguars, he aims to secure a position on a roster that features former Longhorn running back Keilan Robinson, selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Earlier in the offseason, wide receiver Devin Duvernay was also part of the Jaguars but was released.
Although Jackson faces tough competition for a spot on the roster after the Jags drafted two backs this year alone, he aspires to follow in the footsteps of other Longhorns who have found success with the Jaguars.
