1st Round
Tyson Jackson
| DE | LSU | Senior |
| 6'4" | 296 lbs | 40: 4.95 sec |
| Strengths: | Great size and athleticism that is rare for a man his size. Despite beliefs, he could be successful as a 4-3 End, 3-4 End, and maybe even a DT in certain scheme. Has long arms and uses them pretty well, keeping lineman away from his torso and locking on. Has pretty quick hands and a decent array of pass rush moves including a deceptive speed rush, impressive bull rush and even a swim move. Jackson is a fiery defender with a decent motor when motivated. Very powerful and will hold his own against tackles at the next level. Doesn’t seem to over-pursue on running plays (sticks to his assignments). Consistently knocked tackles off balance and is rarely going to lose a battle one-on-one. Is an all around defender who rushes the passer well and can play the run. Plays faster then he times, and given the right system at the next level, he could be one of the more dominant defensive lineman as early as his rookie year. |
| Weaknesses: | Doesn’t time very fast, but when evaluating a DE who isn’t only a speed rusher it is less of a problem. Motor was inconsistent while at LSU and his production in his Junior and Senior seasons wasn’t what was expected of him after a great sophomore campaign. Would sometimes use improper leverage technique but was able to overcome it because of his natural ability. Didn’t have a lot of sacks and if the tackle was winning the battle early it tended to make Jackson frustrated and lose some of the fire. |
| Quick Hits: | Could play a variety of positions in the NFL and is possibly a boom or bust type if he doesn’t stay motivated. Jackson has all the tools to be a great DE at the next level. Given his lack of sacks in the last few years he might fit best as a 3-4 end where producing sacks isn’t the primary concern. Will money change him? Jackson was a 5th year senior, but will still only be 22 years old at draft time. Jackson went to LSU after playing high school football in Louisiana as well at West St. John School in Edgard LA. |
| Career Stats |
| Year | Tack. | Solo | Asst. | Sack | FF | INT | INT TD |
| 2008 | 36 | 17 | 19 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2007 | 36 | 12 | 24 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2006 | 37 | 12 | 25 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2005 | 12 | 6 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |