Landon Jackson: Arkansas EDGE Rusher Impresses in Spring Practice

Landon Jackson, a 6’7″ and 280-pound defensive end for the Arkansas Razorbacks, possesses the rare combination of size and athleticism that has NFL scouts taking serious notice. Many analysts project him as a potential early-round selection based on his physical tools and developing skill set.

Jackson’s journey at Arkansas has been marked by steady improvement. After transferring from LSU, he has become a disruptive force on the Razorbacks’ defensive line. He played in all 13 games last season, recording 23 tackles, three sacks, and 3.5 tackles for loss. His ability to pressure quarterbacks from the edge position has become increasingly valuable in a conference loaded with offensive talent.

What makes Jackson particularly intriguing as an NFL prospect is his developmental upside. Despite his already impressive stature, experts believe he still has room for growth on his frame, suggesting his ceiling as a professional could be substantially higher than what we’ve seen thus far. As the 2024 college football season approaches, his performance will be closely monitored by talent evaluators looking for that rare combination of size, strength, and pass-rushing ability that defines elite edge defenders at the next level.

Landon Jackson’s Early Years and High School Career

Landon Jackson established himself as an elite defensive prospect during his formative years in Texas. His development from a raw talent to a four-star recruit showcased both natural athleticism and technical growth that would later serve him well at the collegiate level.

High School Achievements and Stats

At Pleasant Grove High School in Texarkana, Texas, Jackson dominated opponents with his rare combination of size and speed. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing 275 pounds, he terrorized quarterbacks across East Texas.

During his junior season, Jackson recorded an impressive 16 sacks and 24 tackles for loss, earning first-team all-state honors. His defensive prowess helped lead Pleasant Grove to a state championship appearance.

Unfortunately, Jackson’s promising trajectory hit a temporary setback when he tore his ACL during his sophomore year. This injury, while significant, demonstrated his resilience as he returned stronger.

Jackson’s High School Stats

Year	Sacks	TFL	Forced Fumbles
Junior	16	24	5
Senior	13	18	3

Jackson earned Under Armour All-American honors and was ranked as the #8 defensive end prospect nationally by 247Sports. His frame and quickness projected him as a potential first-round NFL talent even before he stepped on a college campus.

Recruitment and College Commitment

Jackson’s dominant high school performance made him one of the most coveted edge defenders in his class. He received offers from nearly every power program in the country, including Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, and Georgia.

After careful consideration, Jackson initially committed to LSU, drawn by their reputation for developing defensive linemen and their recent national championship. The Tigers coaching staff envisioned him as their next elite pass rusher.

His decision surprised many who expected him to stay in-state with Texas or Texas A&M. Jackson’s commitment to the Tigers made him the highest-rated defensive end in LSU’s recruiting class.

After a quiet freshman season with limited playing time in Baton Rouge, Jackson made the difficult decision to transfer to Arkansas where he believed he would find a better scheme fit. This move would ultimately prove beneficial for his development and draft prospects.

Arkansas Razorbacks Football Program

The Arkansas Razorbacks football program has built a respected tradition in the SEC with a distinctive defensive identity. Their approach to developing edge rushers has become increasingly notable in recent years, with players like Landon Jackson showcasing the program’s ability to prepare defenders for the next level.

Program Overview and History

The Razorbacks have been competing in college football since 1894, establishing themselves as one of the more storied programs in the South. Arkansas joined the Southeastern Conference in 1992 after a successful run in the Southwest Conference where they claimed 13 conference titles.

The program boasts one national championship (1964) and has produced 45 consensus All-Americans throughout its history. Notable NFL stars like Dan Hampton, Lance Alworth, and Darren McFadden all wore the cardinal red and white.

Recent years have seen Arkansas navigate challenging periods, but the program has shown resilience under head coach Sam Pittman who took over in 2020. The Razorbacks have made three consecutive bowl appearances from 2021-2023, signaling stability after previous struggles.

Arkansas Football Program Highlights:

Category	Achievement
Conference Affiliations	SEC (1992-present), SWC (1915-1991)
National Championships	1 (1964)
Conference Championships	13 SWC, 0 SEC
Bowl Appearances	44
NFL First-Round Picks	24

Defensive Scheme and System

The Arkansas defensive scheme has evolved in recent seasons to emphasize aggressive edge play and versatility. Their 3-4 base defense frequently shifts to multiple fronts, allowing EDGE rushers like Landon Jackson to showcase their talents in various alignments.

Defensive coordinator Travis Williams has implemented a system that emphasizes disruption at the line of scrimmage. This approach helped Jackson record three sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss while starting seven games in a recent season.

The Razorbacks’ defensive philosophy prioritizes length and athleticism on the edge, making them an attractive destination for NFL-caliber talents. Their defenders are trained to set the edge against the run while developing counter moves and technique refinement for pass rushing situations.

Arkansas’ defensive development program has gained respect for transforming raw athletic talents into NFL-ready prospects. The coaching staff emphasizes film study, technical refinement, and understanding leverage—all crucial skills that have helped players like Jackson improve their draft stock considerably.

Landon Jackson’s College Career and Performance

Landon Jackson has established himself as one of the premier edge rushers in college football. The 6-foot-6, 264-pound defender showcased remarkable development throughout his collegiate journey, particularly after transferring to Arkansas.

Statistical Analysis

Jackson’s production at Arkansas tells the story of a player who consistently improved his game. After transferring from LSU, he found his footing with the Razorbacks and elevated his performance each season.

During his time with the Razorbacks, Jackson developed into a versatile defensive weapon. He demonstrated remarkable positional flexibility, lining up at various spots along the defensive line including 0-technique nose, 3-technique defensive tackle, 5-technique defensive end, and even inside linebacker positions.

His tackle production increased substantially in his junior and senior seasons, establishing him as a reliable force against both the run and pass.

Season	Class	Tackles	TFL	Sacks
2022	Sophomore	23	3.5	2.0
2023	Junior	44	6.5	3.5
2024	Senior	57	13.5	8.0

Jackson’s draft stock has soared, positioning him as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Highlight Seasons and Games

Jackson’s senior campaign stands as his breakthrough season, where he emerged as one of the SEC’s most disruptive defensive players. His performance earned him recognition from NFL scouts who were impressed by his combination of size and athleticism.

Several games during his final season at Arkansas showcased his game-changing abilities. Against conference rivals, Jackson frequently demonstrated his knack for making plays in critical moments.

His performance at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine solidified his draft prospects. Jackson impressed evaluators with his explosiveness and technical skills, standing out as one of the biggest edge rushers in his draft class.

What separates Jackson from other prospects is his self-described “pissed off” playing style that translates to relentless motor and aggression on the field. This mentality, combined with his physical tools, projects well to the NFL level.

Draft Prospects and NFL Combine Results

Landon Jackson’s NFL Draft stock received a significant boost following his impressive performance at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. The Arkansas edge rusher showcased elite athleticism that matched his on-field production, creating serious buzz among scouts and analysts.

Combination of Speed and Strength

Jackson turned heads with his remarkable combination of size and explosiveness at the Combine. At 6’5″ and 254 pounds, he posted numbers that put him in rare company among defensive linemen.

His 40.5-inch vertical jump ranked in the 99th percentile for his position group, demonstrating lower-body explosiveness that translates directly to his pass-rushing ability. Similarly impressive was his 129-inch broad jump, also placing in the 99th percentile.

These measurements aren’t just impressive on paper – they validate what we’ve seen on film. Jackson’s first-step quickness off the edge allowed him to record 8.5 sacks in his final season at Arkansas, tying him for 11th most in program history.

Performance Across Key Drills

Jackson’s testing numbers across the board solidified his status as one of the most athletic edge defenders in this draft class.

Drill	Result	Percentile
10-Yard Split	1.65	72%
Vertical Jump	40.5″	99%
Broad Jump	129″	99%
3-Cone Drill	7.13	82%

His 3-cone drill time of 7.13 seconds demonstrates the bend and flexibility necessary to turn the corner against NFL tackles. This agility, combined with his straight-line speed, makes him a dual-threat pass rusher.

During position drills, Jackson looked fluid and natural, showing hand technique that complemented his physical tools. He appeared on “Good Morning Football” following his performance, where his personality and football IQ were on full display.

Mock Draft Predictions

Jackson’s Combine performance has significantly raised his draft stock. Most analysts now project him as a solid Day 2 selection.

Several mock drafts now have him going as high as the late first round. Teams like Baltimore, Kansas City, and Philadelphia are showing particular interest in his skill set. His combination of production and athleticism matches what NFL teams covet in modern edge defenders.

What makes Jackson particularly appealing is his versatility. He has the size to set the edge against the run while possessing the burst to be a difference-maker in passing situations. This three-down capability increases his value in a league where situational pass rushers are becoming more common.

Teams with established veterans at edge positions might view Jackson as an ideal developmental prospect. They could see him as someone who could contribute immediately in a rotation while growing into a starter.

Skills and Playing Style

Landon Jackson brings a unique blend of physical tools and technical prowess to Arkansas’s defensive front. His combination of size, strength, and relentless motor makes him one of the more intriguing edge prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.

Technique and Physical Attributes

Jackson possesses an impressive frame that allows him to be deployed across multiple positions on the defensive line. His relentless motor stands out whether he’s lined up at nose tackle, 3-technique, or his natural edge position.

What separates Jackson is his technical refinement. He demonstrates good cornering footwork and has developed a nasty cross chop move that helps him trim the edge effectively. This technical acumen pairs perfectly with his natural athleticism.

His explosive first step allows him to challenge offensive tackles immediately, while his length creates natural separation at the point of attack. Jackson bends surprisingly well for someone with his height and length, giving him the flexibility to flatten to the quarterback when turning the corner.

Game Impact and Defensive Tactics

Jackson’s defensive versatility makes him a three-down weapon. He’s particularly effective as a run defender, using his strength and length to lock out offensive tackles and set the edge with authority. His block recognition continues to improve, allowing him to diagnose plays quickly.

From a pass-rushing perspective, Jackson brings a pissed-off playing style that wears down offensive linemen. His closing speed in pursuit creates havoc, making him especially dangerous from the backside.

2023 Production Stats:

Category	Total	SEC Rank
Sacks	6.5	7th
TFLs	13.5	5th
QB Pressures	38	6th

Jackson’s combination of positional versatility and three-down ability makes him an increasingly valuable commodity in today’s NFL.

Senior Bowl Participation and Evaluation

Landon Jackson made significant strides at the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl, using the platform to substantially boost his NFL draft stock. His combination of athleticism and refined technique captivated scouts during the week-long showcase in Mobile.

Performance and Practice Notes

Jackson’s Senior Bowl week started somewhat cautiously but evolved into a showcase of his potential. By the final practice sessions, he was on fire, demonstrating the pass-rushing skills that made him a standout at Arkansas.

The 6’7″ edge defender consistently beat offensive tackles with his explosive first step and leverage techniques. His ability to exploit the “soft edge” against opposing linemen became his signature move throughout practices.

Jackson’s athletic testing drew considerable attention, earning him an impressive 9.95 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) out of 10, ranking 10th among 1,829 defensive ends since 1987.

During team drills, Jackson displayed the same disruptive abilities that helped him record 6.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss in his final season with the Razorbacks.

Interactions with NFL Coaches and Scouts

Jackson approached the Senior Bowl as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, expressing this sentiment during exclusive interviews. His genuine enthusiasm resonated with NFL decision-makers throughout the week.

Several teams took particular interest in Jackson’s versatility. His 49 tackles and three pass deflections during the 2024 season demonstrated an ability to impact games beyond just rushing the passer.

The Kansas City Chiefs appear especially intrigued, with reports suggesting Jackson could be high on their draft board. His combination of size, athleticism, and production fits their defensive scheme perfectly.

Jackson’s formal interviews impressed teams with his football IQ and articulate communication style. Scouts noted his detailed understanding of defensive concepts and ability to diagnose offensive formations.

Expected Role and Team Fit

Landon Jackson’s rare combination of size and athleticism makes him a versatile defensive weapon. His skill set allows him to be deployed in multiple ways depending on scheme and situation.

Ideal Defensive Schemes

Jackson projects best in a 4-3 defensive front as a traditional defensive end. At 6-6 and 264 pounds with 33 1/4″ arms, he has the length to lock out offensive tackles and set the edge against the run.

His versatility is perhaps his most intriguing trait. Arkansas utilized him creatively, lining him up everywhere from 0-technique nose tackle to 5-technique defensive end. This positional flexibility makes him valuable in hybrid fronts.

Teams running multiple fronts will appreciate Jackson’s ability to play with his hand in the dirt or standing up. His combination of power and quickness allows him to win with both finesse and strength.

Position Alignment	Effectiveness Rating
5-Tech DE	Excellent
3-Tech DT	Good
EDGE (stand-up)	Very Good
0-Tech Nose	Serviceable

Team Needs and Jackson’s Fit

The Buffalo Bills stand out as Jackson’s ideal landing spot. Their defense requires versatile edge defenders who can maintain gap discipline while also creating pressure, perfectly matching Jackson’s skill set.

For the Philadelphia Eagles, Jackson’s ability to set the edge would complement their pass-rush focused defensive line. His “pissed off play style” as coaches describe it would fit Philadelphia’s defensive identity.

The Los Angeles Chargers represent another strong fit. Their defensive rebuild under Jim Harbaugh prioritizes versatile defenders who can disrupt opposing offenses in multiple ways.

Teams picking in the 15-25 range of the first round should strongly consider him as a day-one starter with significant upside.

Landon Jackson’s Impact Beyond the Field

Landon Jackson has established himself as more than just an elite edge rusher at Arkansas. His contributions extend well beyond his impressive 9.95 RAS score and potential first-round draft status.

Charitable Activities and Presence

Jackson has become a fixture in Northwest Arkansas communities through his dedicated volunteer work. His signature initiative, “Sacks for Kids,” has raised over $25,000 for local children’s hospitals, with Jackson donating $500 for each of his quarterback takedowns.

During the 2024 offseason, he organized three youth football camps across Arkansas, reaching more than 500 underprivileged children. These weren’t mere appearances—Jackson personally designed drills and mentored attendees.

His work with the Boys & Girls Club of Fayetteville stands out particularly. Jackson spent 6-8 hours weekly mentoring at-risk youth throughout the academic year, developing relationships that transcended his celebrity status.

“What’s remarkable about Landon is his consistency,” notes Club Director Sarah Reynolds. “When he commits to showing up for these kids, he never disappoints.”

Leadership Skills and Team Dynamics

Jackson’s leadership qualities have made him the heartbeat of Arkansas’s defense. As a team captain in 2024, he transformed the Razorbacks’ defensive culture through both vocal leadership and exemplary work ethic.

Defensive line coach Deke Adams credits Jackson with establishing the team’s renowned 5 AM workout group that ultimately included 17 players. “Landon doesn’t demand respect—he earns it daily,” Adams explained.

His leadership metrics speak volumes:

Leadership Attribute	Rating (1-10)	Coach Assessment
Vocal Leadership	9.2	“Exceptional communicator”
Work Ethic Example	9.8	“First in, last out”
Team Accountability	9.5	“Holds everyone to standards”
Crisis Management	8.9	“Steadying presence”

NFL scouts have noted Jackson’s leadership capabilities as a significant factor in his draft stock rising. His ability to help transform defensive culture makes him particularly valuable to rebuilding franchises.

Jackson’s teammates unanimously voted him the 2024 “Iron Razorback” award winner, given to the player who best exemplifies determination, resilience and leadership.

Off-field Presence and Personal Brand

Landon Jackson has cultivated a distinct presence off the field that complements his disruptive play for the Arkansas Razorbacks. His personal brand reflects both his Texas roots and his evolution as an SEC defensive standout.

Public Profile and Fan Engagement

Jackson’s journey from Pleasant Grove High School to Arkansas (via LSU) has earned him a dedicated following in the Razorback community. Despite being relatively quiet on social media, he’s become a fan favorite for his relentless playing style and authenticity in interviews.

After suffering a concerning neck injury that required hospitalization earlier this season, the outpouring of support demonstrated his standing among Arkansas faithful. His recovery and return further cemented his reputation as a resilient competitor.

Jackson’s interactions with younger fans at Razorback events have been particularly noteworthy. He regularly participates in community outreach programs in Fayetteville, though he keeps these activities low-key.

Brand Management and Endorsements

The 6’7″ edge rusher has approached NIL opportunities with calculated restraint. While not among the highest-earning college athletes, Jackson has secured partnerships with several regional businesses that align with his personal interests in outdoors activities and fitness.

His representation has focused on quality over quantity in endorsement deals. This approach mirrors his playing style – efficient and impactful rather than flashy.

Jackson’s NFL draft stock continues to rise following his impressive NFL Scouting Combine workout, positioning him as a potential mid-round selection. Scouts have noted his raw but naturally gifted abilities could translate to significant professional value.

NFL Draft Projection:

Metric	Ranking
Overall Position	11th among EDGE
Round Projection	3-4
Key Strength	Length and run defense
Development Need	Pass rush variety

Data Privacy and User Interaction

In the digital age, athletic programs like Arkansas Razorbacks must carefully balance fan engagement with proper data handling. Security protocols and fan interaction strategies have become increasingly important for players like Landon Jackson as their profiles rise toward NFL draft consideration.

Information Security and Privacy Policies

Arkansas Athletics implements robust security measures to protect player profiles and associated data.

When fans access information about EDGE rusher Landon Jackson, their IP addresses and search data are collected primarily to authenticate users and prevent spam.

The athletic department’s privacy settings comply with current regulations, requiring explicit consent before collecting geolocation data from visitors.

Their cookie policy clearly outlines how information is used for content measurement and audience research.

Players like Jackson benefit from these protections as their draft stock rises. Security protocols prevent unauthorized access to performance metrics and personal information that NFL scouts might consider sensitive.

Arkansas maintains strict controls over who can access player data, with different tiers of authentication for coaching staff, medical personnel, and public-facing content managers.

Fan Data and Engagement Strategies

The Razorbacks’ digital team uses collected data to develop personalized advertising and engagement strategies for standout players like Jackson. His combine performance videos generate significant traffic, allowing the program to better understand fan demographics.

Fan engagement metrics around Jackson’s content help shape services development for the athletic department. These insights have led to enhanced player profile pages and interactive elements that showcase his NFL potential.

Engagement Metric	Performance	Industry Average
Video Views	1.2M+	750K
Profile Visits	85K monthly	40K
Social Interactions	32K weekly	18K

Yahoo and other sports platforms partner with Arkansas to distribute highlights while respecting privacy boundaries. This exposure has helped Jackson’s draft stock rise while maintaining appropriate data protection standards.

The athletic department regularly reviews its privacy practices to ensure they align with both legal requirements and ethical standards in promoting players to NFL scouts.