RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Rickey Jackson HOF (College Stats) - 1981 NFL Draft Pick #51 by NO

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Rickey Jackson - 1981 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

  • Name: Rickey Jackson
  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: University of Pittsburgh
  • Height: 6'1"
  • Weight: 245 lbs

College Stats:

  • Tackles: 200+ career tackles
  • Sacks: 15+ career sacks
  • Interceptions: 3 career interceptions

Strengths:

  • Exceptional Athleticism: Jackson demonstrated impressive speed and agility for a linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field.
  • Strong Tackler: Known for his ability to bring down ball carriers, Jackson's tackling technique was both effective and impactful.
  • Football Intelligence: His understanding of the game and ability to read plays contributed significantly to his success on the field.
  • Versatile Player: Capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, Jackson's versatility was a key asset for any defensive scheme.

Weaknesses:

  • Injury Concerns: Jackson had a few minor injuries during his college career that raised some red flags about his durability.
  • Development Needs: While talented, some scouts felt he needed further refinement in his pass coverage skills.

Draft Projection:

Rickey Jackson was projected to be a first-round pick in the 1981 NFL Draft. Many analysts believed he would be a valuable asset to any team looking to strengthen their defensive unit.

Conclusion:

Rickey Jackson was viewed as one of the top linebacker prospects in the 1981 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism, intelligence, and tackling prowess made him a highly sought-after player who would go on to have a storied career in the NFL, eventually earning a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.