Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Artis Jackson () - 1988 NFL Draft Pick #266 by MIA

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Artis Jackson (1988 NFL Draft)

College: University of California, Berkeley
Position: Running Back

Overview

Artis Jackson emerged as a notable running back during his college career at Cal, showcasing a unique combination of speed, agility, and power. His performance during his senior year caught the attention of NFL scouts, making him a prospect to watch leading up to the 1988 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Speed: Jackson displayed exceptional straight-line speed, making him a threat to break away for long runs.
• Vision: He exhibited excellent field vision, allowing him to identify and exploit running lanes effectively.
• Versatility: Capable of contributing in the passing game, Jackson was effective as a receiver out of the backfield.
• Physicality: Despite his speed, he was not afraid to lower his shoulder and engage defenders, showcasing good contact balance.

Weaknesses

• Durability Concerns: Jackson faced some injury issues during his college career, raising questions about his ability to withstand the rigors of an NFL season.
• Blocking Skills: While he had potential, his pass protection skills were still a work in progress, which could limit his playing time on third downs.

Draft Projection

Artis Jackson was projected to be selected in the mid-rounds of the 1988 NFL Draft. His combination of skills made him an intriguing option for teams looking to add depth at the running back position, especially those in need of a versatile player who could contribute both on the ground and through the air.

Conclusion

Artis Jackson's speed and versatility made him a desirable prospect heading into the 1988 NFL Draft. While some concerns remained regarding his durability and blocking abilities, his potential to develop into a reliable NFL running back left teams eager to see where he would land.