Draft Prospect: Kareem Jackson

Throughout the Peyton Manning era, the Indianapolis Colts have not had a shutdown cornerback. Sure they have had solid corners who usually leave to chase money elsewhere, but never have they had a player that opposing quarterbacks are afraid to target at the cornerback position. Now the Colts have had enormous success at safety, and if Bob Sanders could ever stay healthy they would have the best safety combination in the NFL. Thus, with the 31st pick the Colts may finally opt to select a cornerback who they believe will be a steadfast part of this defense for years to come. 

Kareem Jackson is a weathered and experienced cornerback out of the University of Alabama, and at 5-10 1/2 and 196 pounds he could be exactly what the Colts are looking for. Jackson is not exactly a “burner” at the corner position, but at the combine he did run a fair 4.48 40 yard dash. Jackson has been criticized for his lack of fluidity and transitional movement, and even for his lack of “playing speed.” Thus, most scouts assume he will have difficulties with quick and speedy wideouts, but he makes up for his lack of speed with his aggressive and physical play.

Jackson has good size for his position, and although he lacks pure speed he does have quick feet and good agility. He brings an excellent resume to the table, having played under defensive guru, Nick Saban, while starting three years on a terrific Alabama defense. Jackson makes up for his lack of speed with his great instincts and physical play. Playing in the SEC, Jackson became accustom to playing against big physical receivers, and it shows on film. He also bring a confident and competitive style of play to the field, he certainly has the type of swagger that the Colts defense brings to the field every Sunday. 

Although Jackson is not an elite rated cornerback, he has the pedigree and skills to rise up draft boards on draft day. Playing alongside Antoine Bethea and either Melvin Bullitt or Bob Sanders, Jackson will certainly have veteran leadership to guide him throughout his rookie season. His ability to play either man or zone will also move him up draft boards, and possibly into the first round. With the recent loss of Marlin Jackson, the Colts know first hand what it is like to draft a cornerback in the first round just to have him walk away. So unless the Colts are certain of the abilities of Jackson, I don’t see them risking the pick on him simply because of his background and physical play.