Virginia LB Nick Jackson transferring to Iowa

Iowa added its first defensive participant by means of the switch portal with former Virginia linebacker Nick Jackson giving his pledge Wednesday night time. Right here’s what you have to know:

• Jackson selected Iowa over Oklahoma.
• The 2-time second-team All-ACC choice led the convention final 12 months with 10.4 tackles per recreation and had 104 total within the Cavaliers’ 10-game season.
• In 2021, Jackson completed with an ACC-high 117 tackles. He had 13 tackles for loss and eight sacks in each years mixed, together with seven and 5, respectively, final 12 months.

Background

At 6-foot-1 and 235 kilos, Jackson steps into what was essentially the most inexperienced spot on Iowa’s protection. The Hawkeyes misplaced starters Jack Campbell and Seth Benson to commencement, whereas doubtless starter Jestin Jacobs transferred to Oregon.

What does this imply for Iowa’s protection?

Including a veteran like Jackson, who will graduate from Virginia in Might with a level in commerce, helps solidify one of many nation’s high defenses. The Hawkeyes return 4 defensive backs with at the very least six begins every, plus three starters and 4 extra rotational items alongside the defensive position. However with an inside linebacker tandem of Jackson and Jay Higgins, Iowa can construct its second-level depth organically.

What can Jackson do?

At Virginia, Jackson was a bodily, sideline-to-sideline tackler who typically lined the slot and rushed the passer. He’s a high-energy participant and served as a staff captain final 12 months. His management abilities are apparent, and he’s slated to switch Campbell, a first-team All-American final 12 months. comparability for him is former Iowa linebacker Anthony Hitchens, who performed eight years within the NFL.

Required studying

(Picture: Brett Davis / USA At present)