Jackson Woodard UNLV LB Emerges as Defensive Standout in Spring Practice
Jackson Woodard has emerged as a defensive cornerstone for the UNLV Rebels football program. The 6’2″, 234-pound linebacker transferred from Arkansas and has become a standout performer both on and off the field.
His combination of football IQ, tackling ability, and coverage skills has earned him Preseason First Team All-Mountain West honors from Athlon and positioned him as an NFL draft prospect to watch.
Woodard’s journey to Las Vegas has been marked by consistency and improvement. At UNLV, he’s developed into what coaches call a “tackling machine,” displaying exceptional diagnosis skills and reactiveness in coverage situations. His performance at The Shrine Bowl further solidified his reputation among scouts as an effective defensive playmaker who can contribute at the next level.
What makes Woodard particularly intriguing is his timeline with the Rebels. The Little Rock, Arkansas native is expected to remain with the program through the 2025 season, giving him valuable time to further develop his already impressive skill set. His academic achievements complement his on-field performance, making him a complete student-athlete and leader for a UNLV defense looking to make noise in the Mountain West Conference.
Contents
- 1 Jackson Woodard’s Early Career
- 2 Collegiate Career at UNLV
- 3 Accolades and Recognition
- 4 Transition to Professional Career
- 5 Jackson Woodard’s Playing Style
- 6 Personal Development and Training
- 7 Community Involvement and Life Off the Field
- 8 Notable Teammates and Collaborations
- 9 Statistical Analysis and Record Tracking
Jackson Woodard’s Early Career
Jackson Woodard began his collegiate football journey at the University of Arkansas. He played as a linebacker in the highly competitive SEC, where he gained valuable experience at one of college football’s most challenging conferences.
During his time with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Woodard developed his skills while competing against some of the nation’s top offenses. The SEC provided the perfect training ground for a young linebacker looking to make his mark in college football.
Woodard’s early career was marked by steady improvement and a clear dedication to his craft. Though he wasn’t an immediate star for the Razorbacks, his work ethic and football IQ were evident.
The linebacker position requires a special combination of intelligence, physical ability, and instinct. Woodard demonstrated all three during his developmental years at Arkansas.
After his time with the Razorbacks, Woodard made the significant decision to transfer to UNLV. This move from the SEC to the Mountain West conference would prove transformative for his career.
| Early Career Stats | Arkansas | UNLV (First Season) |
|---|---|---|
| Games Played | 12 | 13 |
| Tackles | 16 | 65 |
| Tackles For Loss | 1 | 8.5 |
| Sacks | 0 | 3 |
The transfer to UNLV allowed Woodard to step into a larger role and showcase his abilities. His tackle numbers increased dramatically after joining the Rebels.
Collegiate Career at UNLV
Jackson Woodard established himself as one of the top linebackers in UNLV football history during his time with the Rebels. His remarkable defensive skills and football IQ transformed the UNLV defense into a formidable unit in the Mountain West Conference.
Statistical Highlights
Woodard’s numbers tell the story of a dominant linebacker who filled the stat sheet consistently. In his senior season, he led the Rebels with 119 total tackles, showcasing his exceptional ability to find the ball carrier.
| Season | Total Tackles | TFL | Sacks | INT | FF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 119 | 11.5 | 2.5 | 1 | 2 |
| 2022 | 76 | 5.0 | 1.0 | 0 | 1 |
Woodard’s 11.5 tackles for loss demonstrated his disruptive presence in the backfield. His consistent production earned him recognition from NFL scouts, with many projecting him as a mid-round selection in the upcoming draft.
His lateral quickness and football instincts make him particularly valuable on passing downs, where he’s shown the ability to drop into coverage effectively.
Defensive Impact and Strategy
Woodard wasn’t just a stat compiler – he was the heart of UNLV’s defensive strategy. Defensive coordinators utilized his versatility by allowing him to play both as a run-stopper and in coverage situations.
His pre-snap recognition became legendary among Mountain West Conference coaches. Woodard frequently adjusted his teammates’ positioning based on offensive formations, essentially serving as an on-field coach.
What separated him from other linebackers was his closing speed. When ball carriers found small openings, Woodard quickly eliminated them with textbook tackling technique. This ability to minimize yards after contact helped UNLV control opposing rushing attacks.
NFL scouts particularly note his three-down capability – something increasingly valuable at the professional level where specialized linebackers have become the norm.
Key Games and Performances
Against Cal in 2023, Woodard delivered perhaps his most complete performance with 14 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and a crucial interception that shifted momentum. His ability to diagnose screen passes repeatedly frustrated the Golden Bears’ offense.
The 2023 LA Bowl showcased Woodard’s big-game mentality as he accumulated 12 tackles and forced a fumble in UNLV’s victory. His performance earned him defensive MVP honors and significantly boosted his draft stock.
Woodard became the first UNLV linebacker named All-America after being selected to the Second Team by the Football Writers Association of America. This historic achievement capped a senior season where he established himself as one of the NCAA’s premier defenders.
His consistent excellence in high-profile matchups demonstrated that Woodard wasn’t just a compiler of stats against weaker competition – he elevated his game when the lights shined brightest.
Accolades and Recognition
Jackson Woodard has established himself as one of the most decorated players in UNLV football history through his exceptional performance both on and off the field. His combination of athletic excellence and academic achievement has broken new ground for the Rebels program.
Conference and National Honors
Woodard made history as UNLV’s first National Football Foundation Campbell Award finalist, cementing his status among college football’s elite student-athletes. This prestigious honor recognizes his excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
The linebacker earned the 2024 Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year award, a testament to his dominant defensive presence and leadership. His consistent performance helped transform UNLV’s defense into one of the conference’s most formidable units.
Woodard also became the first UNLV player to be named a College Sports Communicators First Team Academic All-American, maintaining an impressive 3.77 GPA in kinesiology. He received the General Robert R. Neyland Scholar-Athlete Award, further recognizing his exceptional balance of athletic and academic achievement.
Team Leadership and Influence
As team captain, Woodard’s impact extended far beyond his statistical contributions. His disciplined approach and work ethic established a new standard for the program, influencing teammates through both words and actions.
Woodard’s defensive productivity has been remarkable, tallying 140 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two interceptions in just 17 games as a Rebel. These numbers don’t fully capture his instinctive play recognition and ability to elevate the entire defensive unit.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his combination of football IQ, leadership qualities, and physical tools. Currently projected as a mid-to-late round selection, Woodard’s draft stock continues to rise based on his proven production and intangibles.
The transfer from Arkansas has credited his teammates for his individual success, demonstrating the humility that has endeared him to coaches, teammates and fans alike.
Transition to Professional Career
Jackson Woodard’s journey from UNLV linebacker to potential NFL draft pick showcases his remarkable development. His performance at the collegiate level has attracted attention from NFL scouts, while his path through the transfer portal highlights the modern collegiate athlete’s career trajectory.
NFL Draft Prospects
Woodard has positioned himself as an intriguing linebacker prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. After being invited to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, he’s ready to prove his worth to professional teams.
His collegiate production speaks volumes about his potential:
Jackson Woodard’s UNLV Stats:
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Tackles | 251 |
| Sacks | 6 |
| Interceptions | 5 |
| Fumble Recoveries | 2 |
Most draft analysts consider Woodard a mid-to-late round selection with significant upside. His combination of football IQ and athletic ability makes him valuable, despite coming from a non-Power 5 program.
“I will change an organization,” Woodard boldly stated when discussing his NFL aspirations. This confidence, paired with becoming the first UNLV linebacker named All-America, has scouts intrigued.
The Role of the Transfer Portal
Woodard’s path to NFL prospect status wasn’t traditional. Beginning as a preferred walk-on at Arkansas, he utilized the transfer portal to find opportunity at UNLV — a decision that transformed his career.
During his tenure with the Rebels, the team went an impressive 20-8, with Woodard serving as the defensive anchor. This transfer success story demonstrates how the portal can revitalize careers when players find the right system fit.
The portal allowed Woodard to showcase his abilities in a featured role rather than remaining buried on a depth chart. His transition from SEC walk-on to Mountain West standout illustrates the changing landscape of college football.
For Woodard, the transfer decision paid dividends beyond football, as he also excelled in the classroom and community. This well-rounded development has further enhanced his draft stock.
Jackson Woodard’s Playing Style
Jackson Woodard has established himself as one of the most instinctive linebackers in college football. His aggressive style of play and uncanny ability to read opposing offenses make him a constant threat on the field.
What separates Woodard from other linebackers is his exceptional tackling ability. Since joining UNLV, he has tallied 140 tackles in just 17 games, demonstrating both consistency and productivity.
Woodard’s impact extends beyond just stops. He’s been a force rushing the passer with 5.5 sacks during his time as a Rebel. His ability to time blitzes and slip through blocking schemes creates chaos in opposing backfields.
In coverage, Woodard shows surprising fluidity for his size. His two interceptions at UNLV highlight his ball skills and awareness in passing situations.
Key Statistical Production
| Category | Career at UNLV | Per Game Average |
|---|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 140 | 8.2 |
| Sacks | 5.5 | 0.32 |
| Interceptions | 2 | 0.12 |
NFL scouts have taken notice of his production. Woodard’s draft stock continues to rise, with his status as a Group of Five All-American boosting his visibility.
At 6’2″ and 232 pounds, Woodard possesses the ideal size for the position at the next level. His combination of football IQ, tackling technique, and playmaking ability should translate well to the professional game.
Personal Development and Training
Jackson Woodard’s rise to becoming one of the Mountain West’s elite linebackers didn’t happen by accident. His dedication to improvement through specialized training and valuable coaching relationships has transformed him into a complete defensive force for UNLV.
Skill Enhancement
Woodard’s commitment to strength training and film study has been a key factor in his rise as one of the top linebackers in the conference. His training regimen focuses on three core areas: speed development, tackling technique, and coverage skills.
The results speak for themselves. Woodard improved his lateral movement significantly between his junior and senior seasons, allowing him to make plays from sideline to sideline.
Woodard’s Performance Progression
| Stat | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 (through April) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 78 | 96 | 42 |
| TFL | 4.5 | 9.0 | 5.0 |
| Sacks | 1.0 | 3.5 | 2.0 |
| INTs | 0 | 2 | 1 |
NFL scouts have taken notice of his improved block-shedding technique, with many projecting him as a mid-round selection with potential to contribute immediately on special teams.
Mentorship and Coaching Influence
The UNLV coaching staff has played a pivotal role in Woodard’s development. Position coaches helped refine his instinctual play, turning raw athleticism into disciplined performance.
Woodard credits film sessions with defensive coordinators for improving his pre-snap recognition. “The game slowed down for me when I started seeing formations the way coaches taught me to,” he explained during Mountain West Media Days where he was named Preseason Co-Defensive Player of the Year.
His relationship with teammate Ricky White has also proven valuable, with the two often pushing each other through grueling summer workouts. This competitive camaraderie helped Woodard earn the distinction of being a team captain and nominee for both the AFCA Good Works Team and Danny Wuerffel Trophy.
Community Involvement and Life Off the Field
Jackson Woodard represents the gold standard for student-athletes who make an impact beyond the gridiron. The UNLV linebacker has earned national recognition for his extensive community service work, garnering nominations for both the prestigious Wuerffel Trophy and the AFCA Good Works Team.
As a team captain, Woodard’s leadership extends far into the Las Vegas community. He regularly participates in charitable events that support local youth programs, demonstrating a commitment that matches his intensity on game days.
His public appearances aren’t limited to post-game interviews. Woodard frequently visits local schools and hospitals, bringing hope and inspiration to young fans who view him as more than just a football player.
Community Recognition:
- Wuerffel Trophy nominee (2024)
- AFCA Good Works Team nominee (2024)
- Team Captain selection
The senior linebacker’s dedication to service hasn’t gone unnoticed by Clark County officials, who recently honored the UNLV football program for their community contributions.
NFL scouts have taken notice of Woodard’s character alongside his on-field production. Currently projected as a mid-to-late round selection, his leadership qualities and community involvement have significantly enhanced his draft profile.
What separates Woodard is his understanding that being an elite defender means little without making a meaningful impact off the field. His balance of athletic excellence and community service epitomizes what college athletics should represent.
Notable Teammates and Collaborations
Jackson Woodard’s defensive prowess at UNLV benefited greatly from his synergy with talented teammates. His ability to excel was amplified by defensive partnerships and special teams collaborations that showcased his versatility as a linebacker.
Defensive Unit Synergy
Woodard’s effectiveness as a linebacker was significantly enhanced by his partnership with defensive back Cameron Oliver. The duo created a formidable defensive wall that opponents struggled to penetrate throughout the 2024 season. Oliver’s coverage skills complemented Woodard’s aggressive tackling approach, allowing the UNLV defense to shut down both passing and rushing attacks.
Defensive lineman Alexander Whitmore also proved to be a crucial collaborator. His ability to pressure quarterbacks forced hasty throws that Woodard could capitalize on. This partnership contributed to Woodard’s impressive stats of 140 tackles and 5.5 sacks in just 17 games as a Rebel.
Safety Jalen Catalon rounded out this elite defensive unit. His field vision allowed for seamless communication with Woodard, creating a defensive chemistry that opposing offenses struggled to decode.
| Defensive Unit Member | Position | Key Contribution with Woodard |
|---|---|---|
| Cameron Oliver | DB | Coverage support, tackling assistance |
| Alexander Whitmore | DL | QB pressure, run stopping |
| Jalen Catalon | DB | Field communication, defensive reads |
Special Teams Contributions
Though primarily known for his defensive prowess, Woodard’s special teams collaborations showcased his versatility. He worked closely with punt return specialist Jacob De Jesus, providing crucial blocking that opened lanes for explosive returns.
Woodard’s special teams value extended to kickoff coverage, where his partnership with Johnathan Baldwin created a fearsome duo. Their combined speed and tackling precision limited opponents’ field position advantages consistently throughout the season.
Running back Jai’den Thomas also benefited from Woodard’s special teams efforts. When Thomas returned kicks, Woodard’s blocking schemes and field awareness created opportunities for significant yardage gains.
NFL scouts have particularly noted Woodard’s special teams versatility as a factor that could boost his draft stock. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game makes him a more valuable prospect than linebackers who excel solely in defensive situations.
Statistical Analysis and Record Tracking
Jackson Woodard has emerged as a defensive powerhouse for UNLV. He’s putting up numbers that demand attention from both conference rivals and NFL scouts alike.
The linebacker currently sits ninth in UNLV single-season history with 124 total tackles. This remarkable achievement speaks to his consistent presence in the middle of the Rebels’ defense.
His production doesn’t just register locally – Woodard ranks eighth nationally in tackles, placing him among elite company across all of college football.
2023-24 Season Statistics:
| Category | Total | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 124 | 8th nationally |
| Tackles for Loss | 17 | Top 20 in MW |
| Sacks | 5.5 | Team Leader |
| Interceptions | 2 | – |
What separates Woodard from other linebackers is his game-to-game consistency. His performance logs show minimal dropoff regardless of opponent.
The accolades have followed naturally. Woodard was named Preseason Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year – the first UNLV player to receive this honor since 2000.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his combination of instincts and production. Currently projected as a mid-round selection, his three-down capabilities and special teams potential make him an intriguing prospect.
