The 2025 NFL Draft is filled with talent at the EDGE position. We take a look at Arkansas EDGE Landon Jackson, who brings power, explosion, and athleticism to the trenches.
Jackson was a four-star recruit by ESPN and 247 Sports coming out of high school. He eventually committed to LSU over schools like Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon, and others. Following the 2021 season, he transferred to Arkansas where he has made a stamp on his career.
During his three-year career, Jackson has amassed 67 tackles (31 solo), 9.5 sacks, two pass deflections, and one forced fumble, showcasing his consistency and development over time. In 2023, he racked up 44 tackles (33 solo), 6.5 sacks, and one pass deflection, earning himself First-Team All-SEC honors.
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Landon Jackson, Defensive End/EDGE, Arkansas
Name: Landon Jackson
Jersey: No. 40
Position: EDGE
School: Arkansas
Class: Senior
Height: 6-foot-7
Weight: 281 lbs.
Awards: First-Team All-SEC (2023)
Games Watched: Alabama (2023), Auburn (2023), LSU (2023), Ole Miss (2023)
Major Injury History: None
Arkansas EDGE Landon Jackson with similarities of Maxx Crosby.
– Good UOH + Length
– Strong lower body with quickness to utilize all three phases of pass rush (Bull – Speed to Power – Speed)
– Explosive, fluid & flexible
– Good pursuit and awarenessTop 5 EDGE in 2025 pic.twitter.com/7Z6Y4Xd4ln
— • Colton Edwards • (@cedwardsNFL) May 6, 2024
Landon Jackson’s Strengths
Good athletic ability due to contact balance, quickness, and upfield burst. Dominant pass rusher with power as a 4-7 tech, displaying good upfield burst, quickness, and hand placement to engage and extend while bringing power through his hips and putting pressure into the pocket resulting in good play strength. Strong lower body with quickness to utilize all three phases of pass rush (Bull, Speed to Power, Speed). His use of hands is consistent, allowing him to rip, swim, or swipe off initial contact. He can extend and lift the offensive lineman, allowing him to read and shed the block, making a play in the backfield or at the line of scrimmage. Explodes off the line of scrimmage with the ability to pursue backside versus the run with an impressive motor each rep.
Landon Jackson’s Weaknesses
At times, the pad level is adequate, playing too high, resulting in a loss of power against the pass. Displays stiffness when moving lateral, often hindering his ability to change directions quickly. Delayed recognition and reaction versus pulls and down blocks, allowing himself to get displaced in his gap due to his inability to prepare for contact and positioning.
Summary
Landon Jackson is a physical prowess that NFL scouts and general managers love in an edge rusher. The edge rusher displays some similarities to Maxx Crosby due to his explosive first step, good and consistent hand usage, high motor, and ability to set the edge. His size and length pose a threat against both the pass and the run, with the capability to shift from the 4-technique to the 7-technique, showcasing his versatility as a prospect. Development in consistent pad level is crucial, affecting his leverage and power against stronger offensive linemen. If that can be refined, it will take his game to the next level. Stiffness and recognition need work as it can limit his effectiveness versus the run. Jackson has some of the highest potential in the draft and will look to add to his repertoire over 2024.
Draft Projection: Second Round
Grade: First Round
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