Former FSU defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. is an intriguing prospect for NFL teams. He stoodout at the Senior and Shrine Bowls practices and workouts enough to earn an invitation to the 2026 NFL Combine.
Jackson impressed the scouts with his impressive physical attributes that look like he’s straight out of a super hero comic book. His size and length are coveted by NFL teams at the defensive tackle position. They’ve seen what he can do in games, but teams still want players they are interested in to perform at the NFL Combine.
Darrell Jackson Jr. decided to hold off on participating in any of the on-field drills, instead opting to wait until FSU’s Pro Day. Jackson dropped about 15 pounds since the Shrine Bowl and Senior Bowl games. It could be he’s looking to trim down a tad more before working out. Maybe he had a small injury that could have impacted things?
Jackson only needs one team to fall in love with him to make life changing money
Nevertheless, it leaves some questions for NFL teams interested in drafting him and puts a lot of pressure on him to perform well at his FSU Pro Day.
If I were Jackson, I'd be concerned with the 10-second split and 20-yard shuttle. A defensive tackle isn't going to be running 40 yards in a game or jumping much. Jackson has arms the lenth of a Condor's wingspan, which could make it harder to move 225 pounds over and over. Team already know he can anchor against double teams and move people in one-on-one situations.
However, good times in those short area bursts could help him improve his draft stock. At least he has some baselines provided by the guys who chose to workout at the NFL Combine. Now, he just has to go and perform when his time is called in a few weeks.