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 NCAA Scouting – Player Profile:
Dexter Jackson, WR/KR
by Sam Monson
20/3/2008
Dexter Jackson is a prospect who has been shooting his way up people’s draft boards ever since he surprised Michigan in the 2007 season opener for 3 catches, 92 yards and 2 TDs in Appalachian State’s unforgettable upset victory. Since then, Jackson’s earned himself appearances at the East-West Shrine game, and later the Senior Bowl where he showed off his lightning quickness and explosive playmaking ability. He also turned in the fastest time of any wide receiver at the Combine, running a 4.29 second time in the 40 yard dash. Jackson has now firmly propelled himself into first day consideration for the Draft, and the Diner’s going to let you in on a little secret he’s a better prospect than much-heralded DeSean Jackson.
 While DeSean Jackson is a first round prospect, Dexter Jackson would seem to be a bargain alternative. He actually times faster than DeSean, and weighed in at 182lbs, 13lbs heavier. Both receivers bring rare quickness to the table, and are likely to have to make their first impact on the NFL on special teams, in the return game, the only difference between the two is that Dexter Jackson has a little more bulk to him to absorb NFL collisions, without losing any speed, and he’s not going to cost anybody a first round pick.
Michigan went to sleep on Dexter Jackson; the NFL isn’t going to make the same mistake. Somebody is going to aim at this kid, instead of DeSean Jackson in round 1.
What we like about Jackson
Jackson has supreme speed and quickness, being able to hit full speed in a couple of strides, and instantly gain separation. He is a danger every time he touches the ball, and can take it to the house every touch. Scouts will also like the fact he displays soft hands, and certainly has the ability to emerge as a premier NFL deep threat at WR, even if he may not have immediate impact. He’s also shown great toughness for a player of his size, which also bodes well for his transition to the NFL.
 Jackson has the kind of speed and ability that you just can’t teach, and with Devin Hester’s success in recent years driving up the value of return guys in the draft, Jackson could find himself getting selected early in the 2008 Draft.
Question marks about Jackson
Jackson doesn’t have great NFL size. At only 5’9 and 182lbs, he’s a small target, and one who is likely to have to adjust to the physical nature of life in the NFL. He also didn’t play against top competition in college, though he didn’t seem fazed by the raise in competition at the Shrine Game or the Senior Bowl. He’ll also need to adjust to life in a pro-style offense, coming from the spread in college. His route running will also need some work at the next level.
Highlight of his college career
Upsetting #5 ranked Michigan, 35-32 with a blocked field goal in the dying seconds. Jackson scored 2 TDs in the monumental upset victory, and began to feature on the national radar.
Other snippets
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After the Appalachian State upset over Michigan, Dexter Jackson featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
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Shares his name with a famous Body Building champion, as well as a former Superbowl MVP.
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Jackson could be closely compared to Steve Smith, or Santana Moss.
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Potential good fits include anybody looking for a speedy WR or return man: Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Dallas Cowboys.
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