Rob Jackson

A classic over-achieving defensive end, Jackson combines solid instincts with good technique and overall strength to make plays in the running game. He got on the radar of NFL scouts with a senior season that included 25 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 2.0 sacks in 12 games. Jackson has only marginal burst off the snap, rarely forcing the quarterback to alter his throw. Considering he quickly developed into a starter for Kansas State after a successful tour at Fort Scott Community College, there is some upside here worthy of development.

positives

Lean frame with room for additional growth. ... Could add up to 10 pounds without a significant loss of quickness. ... Adequate quickness off the snap. ... Good strength at the point of attack. ... Uses his hands well to gain a leverage advantage and can hold the point and create a pile. ... Good effort in pursuit. ... Finds the ball and hustles to make a play. ... Reliable wrap-up tackler.

negatives

Only adequate overall athlete. ... Marginal burst off the snap. ... Adequate lateral quickness. ... Lacks closing speed necessary to translate his solid hand play into becoming a true pass rush threat. ... Good effort in pursuit, but lacks the long speed to catch ballcarriers from behind.

Prepped at West Haven High School, where he was considered the No. 16 overall prospect in New England by SuperPrep.

Earned all-area and all-state honors at defensive end in 2003.

Totaled 72 tackles, including 12 sacks, as a senior.

Robert Gene Jackson was born Nov. 3, 1985, in New Haven, Conn.

Parents are Robert Jackson and Sadie Groom.

Related to basketball hall of famer Calvin Murphy.

A social science major.