Described by former Cardinal  head  football coach Jim Owens as “integrity above reproach” and “an outstanding athlete,” Jackson made a name for himself after two stellar seasons as a nose tackle in 1973 and linebacker in 1974 for the Cardinals.  Jackson was twice named the Texas Junior College Football Conference’s Most Valuable Player. The Cardinals won a conference title his freshman season and were second the next year.
  Texas A&M  was his next stop, where he helped the Aggies lead the nation in total defense. He was named an All-American for two years and was a finalist for the Lombardi Award. He led the Aggies in tackles as a senior with 143. He is a member of the Texas A&M Hall of Fame.
  He was the 17^th overall pick in the NFL draft by the Cleveland Browns. Knee injuries cut his pro career short after stints with the Browns, Denver Broncos and Atlanta Falcons.