Rookie linebacker Nick Jackson is attempting to make the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' 53-man roster after going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Jackson was a force for Virginia and Iowa during his six-year college football career. In four seasons with Virginia, Jackson accumulated 352 total tackles (161 solo, 191 assisted), 10.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in four seasons.
During his two seasons with the Hawkeyes, Jackson tallied 201 total tackles (97 solo, 104 assisted), 6.5 sacks, and one interception.
His 553 total tackles is No. 2 overall in FBS history, and his 73 career games ranked No.1 overall.
Despite his high level of production, Jackson was not selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he impressed the Buccaneers enough to secure a preferred free agent contract with the organization.
During the first week of the NFL preseason, Jackson, alongside fellow undrafted rookie and former Hawkeye Jay Higgins, were the highest-graded rookie linebackers.
Jackson looked to continue his solid play in week two of the preseason against Kaleb Johnson and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Second sack of the preseason for LB Nick Jackson 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/2KqdUuQ36f
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) August 17, 2025
Jackson had another solid game for the Bucs' defense in week two as he continues pushing for a spot on the 53-man roster.
During Tampa Bay's 17-14 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jackson tallied three total tackles, all solo, and also added a sack, his second of the preseason.
The Tampa Bay defense terrorized the Steeler's offense all game, racking up three interceptions and four sacks.
Jackson was a key part of the Bucs' dominating defensive performance, and he is making a strong case to make the roster before the 2025-2026 season.