Alabama Football: Interview with 20-Offer 3-Star 2023 DL Jaeden Jackson
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Jaeden Jackson has taken his talents to Andalusia High School for his senior season in 2023. The 6’1”, 270-pound, big man plays with great athleticism and quickness while possessing quick footwork and hand-placement.
The Class of 2023 star recruit currently has 20 offers including Michigan and Cincinnati while also receiving interest from numerous other programs including Florida State and Clemson.
Jackson currently has plans to commit to the college of his choice before his senior season kicks off so it will be exciting to see where he chooses to play at the next level.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Jaeden to talk about his transition to his new school and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Jaeden, how would you grade your individual performance during your junior season?
I don’t like to grade myself, but I felt I did what I had to do for my team, but I didn’t have a chance to really maximize my talent towards the end of the year; my game became elite.
How are you adjusting to your new school?
I am loving the new school. The coaches, the teachers, and my teammates have opened their arms and homes up to me. Coach Taylor said I am a leader right away and this program is expecting a lot out of me, and I love it. It’s a great place for me and my family.
What kind of defense does your new team run?
What was told to me is a 3-4 defense but the goal is to create many one-on-one’s with me so I can make plays. Coaches and teammates are counting on me to lead on an off the field.
How will you fit into this scheme?
I’ll be gap controlling, cross face stunting, working one-on-one with whoever is assigned to block me. But I’m betting on myself to get it done because for the first time in my football career I can mainly focus on playing defense.
Did you receive any individual honors in 2021?
I did at about every camp I attended. I got invited to Rivals Five-Star Challenge which is invite only. At the Next Gen All-American camp I earned MVP, made VTO All-American, finished Top 5, at the Dex Prep Elite Camp I won and was MVP and was MVP Elite camp. I didn’t make first team All-State due to change of philosophy at my old school.
What are your strengths on the football field?
My strengths on field are my knowledge to be a student of the game. I don’t want to give out all my cheat codes but I’m quick and strong with good control of my hands and vision.
How would you describe your style of play?
Powerful.
What are your maxes in the weight room?
I’ve hit 400 before on bench but I haven’t maxed out in a while.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Aaron Donald, because he wipes out the height and weight that a lot of scouts get caught up in. He’s the best to ever do it and that’s why I model my game after him.
What college camps have you attended?
Florida State and Alabama, but heading into my senior year I’m focused on main camps and college visits.
What kind of feedback have you received about your football skills?
I’m super quick, have good footwork, and I’m unblockable.
How many college offers do you have at this time?
I have about 20 offers including Michigan, Cincinnati, Mississippi State, and Missouri.
Are you receiving interest from any other colleges?
About 13 other schools are showing interest including Clemson, Florida State, and Kansas State.
When do you think you’ll choose a commitment date?
I want to commit by the time my varsity season starts in August so I can get it behind me and focus on that school and just play football.
What is your GPA?
3.1.
Thank you for your time.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Robert Jackson; Jaeden Jackson working out