FSU football: Impact of Darrell Jackson Jr’s NCAA waiver denial

FSU football learned that Miami transfer defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. had his NCAA waiver denied. Jackson enrolled at Maryland University after high school and transferred to Miami after one year.

Jackson decided to transfer to FSU after one year due to a medical issue with his mother. Tallahassee is much closer to his hometown than Miami, so it made sense.

However, if you recall, Jackson likely did himself no favors after flirting to go back to Miami after committing to FSU when former high school teammate and FSU defensive tackle Joshua Farmer had thoughts of transferring from FSU after last season.

Both ultimately stayed, but that could have been a factor in the NCAA’s ruling. However, the NCAA has allowed other players to transfer for far less things.

Jackson seems upbeat, considering the news he may have to sit out the entire 2023 season. Jackson would be a difference-maker on the defensive front, and his absence in games will impact how many snaps others will play.

However, there is some concern about defensive line recruiting, and many thought Jackson would head to the NFL after this season. It could be a blessing in disguise if Jackson returned to play next year if he has to miss the entire season.

He would provide the defensive front with an impact player and help with depth once Fabien Lovett and Braden Fiske exit the program after this season.

While it’s not great he could miss the entire year, that would be a silver lining, but there’s no guarantee he would return, as he could opt to enter the NFL Draft.

However, if he has to sit out the year, I would think it would be in his best interest to play next year and get provide that game film for NFL teams.