Undrafted rookie linebacker Nick Jackson was one of the best stories of the preseason. After failing to get drafted during the 2025 NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were impressed with Jackson and signed him to an undrafted free agent contract.
Jackson was one of the most productive linebackers in college football during his six-year career (four with Virginia, two with Iowa).
Jackson racked up over 550 career tackles in college and was given a chance to prove his skills in the preseason.
In three preseason games with the Bucs, Jackson was a force in the center of the defense and was named the highest-graded rookie linebacker after week one.
Jackson capped his stellar preseason with a six-tackle performance against the Buffalo Bills and showed why he should make the 53-man roster.
Even after a solid preseason, in a shocking move, Jackson did not make the Bucs' initial 53-man roster.
Nick Jackson getting cut is unexpected, but could mean another undrafted rookie, John Bullock, could make the 53. He had three tackles on special teams Saturday, and that's a huge part of sticking as a backup linebacker.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) August 25, 2025
Fox Sports NFL reporter Greg Auman reported that Tampa Bay cut Jackson, paving the way for another undrafted rookie to make the 53-man roster.
It is not clear why the Buccaneers cut Jackson following his solid preseason, but it paves the way for him to sign with another organization or join the Bucs' practice squad if he clears waivers.
After showing what he can do during the three preseason games, there is no doubt another team should give him a look, especially if they need linebacker help.
It would be shocking if he made it through waivers and was signed to the Bucs practice squad after showing out in the preseason.
All Hawkeye fans wish Jackson the best and know he will land on his feet with the Bucs or another NFL organization.