Draft Stock - Profiles

Strengths: Good frame, good quickness, long arms
Weaknesses: Lacks elite edge speed and is not yet strong or physical enough to overpower NFL linemen

Statline: Four-year starter recorded 30.5 sacks and 52 tackles for loss in 52 games at USC. Also notched 181 tackles.

Technique: Versatile enough to move inside and play tackle in pass-rushing situations, but best position may be as an outside linebacker in a 3-4.

Known Injuries: Had surgery on his right ankle prior to spring practice in 2007. Left groin pull cost him two weeks of practice (but no playing time) in 2006. Thigh bruise limited his spring practice in 2006. Had surgery after redshirt freshman season of 2003 to clean up debris in ankle.

Combine / Workout Assessment: COMING SOON

Analysis: Jackson was a productive four-year starter at USC but there is some question whether that productivity will translate to Sundays. He has good size and a frame that could handle more weight, but he could also stay lean and play outside linebacker in a 3-4. Jackson doesn’t have the elite speed off the edge that pro teams want from their defensive end, but he does have quick feet and an array of moves that allow him to get to the passer. He’s also capable of moving inside and playing tackle in pass-rush situations, and he’s solid against the run as well. Jackson won’t be the flashy defensive end taken early in the first round, but his versatility and skills should take him off the board at some point on the first day of the draft.