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212. Rich Jackson

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212. Rich Jackson

Undrafted out of Southern in 1966, Rich Jackson was given a chance by the Oakland Raiders, where he played only five games.  Al Davis would trade Jackson to the Denver Broncos, but immediately it was a transaction that the Raiders owner would regret.

Jackson would become the best Defensive End in the American Football League where from 1968 to 1970 the man nicknamed “Tombstone” would go on a three-year streak of First Team All-Pros and Pro Bowls and would be known forever for his “head slap” and “halo spinner", two moves that would become staples of those looking to emulate Jackson.  It is arguable for us to say that during those three seasons, no other Defensive End could touch him, but that was over almost as quickly as it began.  He would suffer a massive injury to his knee in 1971, and he was out of the game a year later, but his impact in the game, whether people are aware, is substantial.

The Bullet Points

  • Country of Origin: New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A.
  • Eligible Since: Sunday, 01 January 1978
  • Position: Defensive End
  • Games Played: 82
  • Notable Statistics: 2 Fumble Recoveries
    0 Fumble Recovery Yards
    45.0 Quarterback Sacks*
    50 Approximate Value

    *Sacks were unofficially calculated by Pro Football Reference as of the 1960 Season.
  • Played For: Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders
  • College: Southern
  • Drafted: Undrafted in 1966
  • Major Accolades and Awards:

    Super Bowl Rings (None)
    First Team All-Pro (3) (1968, 1969 & 1970)
    Pro Bowl (3) (1968, 1969 & 1970)

  • Other Points of Note: Top Ten Finishes: Quarterback Sacks (2) (1968 & 1969)* **

    *Quarterback Sacks were unofficially calculated by Pro Football Reference as of the 1960 Season.
    **AFL
  • Notable All Time Rankings: None.

Should Rich Jackson be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 55.6%
Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 22.2%
Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 11.1%
No opinion. - 0%
No way! - 11.1%
Last modified on Wednesday, 29 March 2023 03:32

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