Oregon LB Devon Jackson doesn’t want to be 'just a regular guy'

TL;DR

Oregon linebacker Devon Jackson aims to elevate his role on the team, transitioning from a rotational player to a key starter. With the Ducks lacking a top recruit at inside linebacker, Jackson's performance this spring and fall camp will be crucial.

Key points

Devon Jackson aims to become a starting linebacker for Oregon Ducks
Oregon Ducks have not had a top recruit at inside linebacker recently
Jackson made 41 tackles last season
Jerry Mixon expected to lead the defense this season
Jackson has faced coverage challenges during his career

Oregon DucksDevon JacksonBryce BoettcherJerry Mixon

Looking around the Oregon Ducks roster, it's hard to find many holes on either side of the ball. The Ducks are one of the best programs in the country at bringing in talent, regardless of position. However, some positions are a bit deeper than others.

The Ducks haven't had a top recruit at inside linebacker in recent years, but that doesn't mean there hasn't been any talent. It's just come from different places, which speaks to the evaluation process of the Ducks' coaching staff. For the past two seasons, Bryce Boettcher has led the Ducks in tackles from his linebacker spot, which he had to earn as a former walk-on.

Now, Jerry Mixon is expected to run the defense from the middle after running alongside Boettcher last season. His new running mate? That's up for grabs this spring and possibly into fall camp. But it appears to be senior Devon Jackson's spot to lose.

Jackson has been a key rotational piece for the Ducks at linebacker for the past three seasons, but he's never been the every-down threat. He made 41 tackles last season, but has often been used in coverage throughout his career thanks to his speed. Still, there have been lapses in coverage where Jackson is chasing running backs down out of the backfield.

This season, Jackson is going to be asked to step up as a run defender, and his athleticism and speed could allow the Ducks to move him around from inside to outside. Bottom line, this is Jackson's last chance to put it all together in an Oregon uniform, and the Ducks will be counting on him to come through just as Mixon did last season.

“Big prove-it mentality for him," Oregon inside linebackers coach Brian Michalowski said. "His last year, being able to put on this Duck uniform means something to him. He's really flying around and playing physical.”

Jackson didn't have the opportunity to prove himself through spring ball last season, but now, fully healthy, he knows how important this final week of practice before the spring game is for him. He's going to leave it all out on the field in Autzen Stadium this fall. Otherwise, he could get lost in the shuffle of Oregon's talented young core, itching for a similar opportunity.

Q&A

What is Devon Jackson's role on the Oregon Ducks football team?

Devon Jackson has been a key rotational linebacker for the Oregon Ducks, aiming to secure a starting position this season.

How many tackles did Devon Jackson make last season?

Devon Jackson made 41 tackles last season while primarily playing in coverage.

Who is expected to lead the Oregon Ducks defense this season?

Jerry Mixon is expected to lead the Oregon Ducks defense from the middle linebacker position.

What challenges has Devon Jackson faced in his linebacker role?

Devon Jackson has faced challenges in coverage, occasionally struggling to keep up with running backs out of the backfield.