Donte Jackson entered the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine with a first-round grade and a second-round projection. The concerns about his size and build weren’t exactly addressed, but his upside was further established with his displays of athleticism.
I’m still not entirely sure if Jackson will ever be able to realize his Pro Bowl potential, but he has the athleticism and footwork to become a true cover corner.
LSU CB Donte Jackson with the very casual 4.32 (cramped his calf, too) pic.twitter.com/1O8ylHpFFJ
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) March 5, 2018
Jackson ran a 4.32 in the 40-yard dash, which simply confirmed the widespread belief that he’s one of the fastest players in this draft class. He’s every bit as explosive on film as he was at the Scouting Combine, with the ability to close the gap between himself and a receiver in no time at all.
That creates compelling playmaking potential, albeit with a somewhat low total of four interceptions in three seasons on his college resume.
Jackson recorded 17 passes defended over the course of the past two seasons, however, and more than held his own against the SEC’s wide receivers. Size is still a question mark, but his speed enables him to play bigger than he is.
Whether Jackson is a first or second-round draft pick, there aren’t many who expect him to fall much further than the early stages of Round 2.