Little Rock Parkview defensive lineman Kenyon Jackson orally committed to Illinois Monday evening after receiving a scholarship offer during a visit to the school last Thursday.
Jackson, 5-11, 298 pounds picked the Fighting IIIini over scholarship offers from Arkansas Tech and Harding. He received interest from Arkansas, Missouri, Memphis, Arkansas State and Missouri State.
He's the son of Keith Jackson, who was an All-American tight end at Oklahoma and a six-time All-Pro while playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins and Green Bay Packers.
Mike Phair, Illinois' co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach, wasn't concerned about Jackson's height.
"He coached in the NFL for a long time for the Chicago Bears and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers," said the younger Jackson, who reports a 435-pound bench press and a squat of 585. "He coached players like me and he showed me big-time players in the NFL that I resemble and he told he can make me into one of those players and give me a chance to play in the NFL
Jackson had 75 total tackles, 44 unassisted tackles, 14.5 sacks 3 forced fumbles and 19 QB hurries along with 17 pancakes at fullback on offense as a junior.
Sports on 07/28/2015