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.
Comments powered by CComment