Darrell Jackson Jr. was projected to be a second-day pick entering the 2026 NFL Draft, but he slid to the fourth round and was selected by the New York Jets. The 6-foot-5, 315-pound defensive tackle from Florida State failed to meet expectations for most teams, with multiple sources stating he belongs on Day 3 due to his limitations as a pass rusher and lack of spatial instincts. The Jets see value in his potential as a rotational backup to T’Vondre Sweat.
Jackson had a solid college career but was inconsistent in production. In his lone season with Miami in 2022, he recorded 27 tackles, 4.5 tackles for a loss, and three sacks. After transferring to Florida State and redshirting in 2023, he posted 32 tackles, four tackles for a loss, and 3.5 sacks in 2024. His final season with the Seminoles saw 45 tackles, three for a loss, and one sack. While he showed power as a run-stuffer, teams questioned his athleticism and pass-rush ability.
Sources from multiple NFL teams said Jackson’s game is all power and lacks the agility to play three downs. “He was a two-down nose tackle with limited pass-rush upside and poor instincts,” one source said. “That’s why he landed in the fourth round.”
The Jets picked up Jackson in the fourth round after trading for T’Vondre Sweat, who has the talent to be a starting nose tackle but has battled weight and stamina issues. Jackson could see significant playing time as a backup and rotational player. However, he will have to beat out first-round bust Mazi Smith for a role on the depth chart. If Jackson earns a spot, it could open the door for a pro career as a situational defender.
New York’s decision to draft Jackson in the fourth round highlights their need for depth along the defensive line. With Sweat’s durability concerns, the Jets may benefit from having a fresh body to rotate in. Jackson’s chance to make an impact will come during training camp and the preseason.
The Jets will begin training camp in late July. Jackson will have to prove he can contribute in a backup role if he wants to secure a spot on the 53-man roster.
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