Darrell Jackson Jr. uses NFL Combine podium to say it was 'in his blood' to be a Seminole

Before ever recording a stat for the Florida State Seminoles, defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. played for the Maryland Terrapins and the Miami Hurricanes.

Then, he finally found his way home, transferring to FSU in 2023 and becoming a starter for the 'Noles in 2024. 

While at the 2026 NFL Combine, Jackson was asked about his decision to leave Miami and join the Seminoles. His answer? FSU was always the place for him.

Darrell Jackson Jr. called Florida State 'home'

"Me going to Florida State, it's always just been home for me," Jackson said. "My uncle played at Florida State... It's always been in my blood, I've always been a Seminole."

While it may have taken a couple of years for Jackson to come to Tallahassee, he ended up at the program he was supposed to play for and had an excellent career for the Seminoles.

Over the last three seasons, he amassed 78 total tackles (26 solo), 4.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and one pass deflection.

While his uncle may have played at Florida State, Jackson grew up in Havana, FL, which is less than 30 minutes north of Tallahassee. So, quite literally, the home of the Seminoles has always been Jackson's home.

Out of high school, Jackson was a three-star prospect and, surprisingly, the Seminoles didn't extend him an offer, despite the fact that Miami, Florida International, and Florida Atlantic did. He committed to the Terrapins before transferring to play for the Canes in 2022.

Finally, when he entered the transfer portal again in 2023, Florida State was ready for him to come home, and he leapt at the opportunity to play for the Noles and head coach Mike Norvell.

Also read: Darrell Jackson Jr. impressing at Shrine Bowl practice, could jump up NFL Draft boards

The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to begin on April 23, and Jackson is expected to hear his name called in the second round, or early in the third, which will take place on the following day, Friday, April 24.