The Florida State Seminoles had just two players taken in the 2025 NFL draft, a number they will be looking to surpass next year. That number would have been higher, but defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. opted to return for one last season and to try and boost his stock.
Lindy’s Sports seems to think that was a smart decision, naming him FSU’s top NFL talent and the eighth best in the ACC. He is one of just two players who isn’t from Clemson or Miami to make the top 10 ranking, joining No. 10 Kyle Louis of Pittsburgh.
Their reasoning for Jackson was short and to the point, saying he was an “interior bulldozer and always impactful.”
Jackson is FSU’s top returning player and someone the Seminoles are counting on to have a big season in the middle of Tony White’s new 3-3-5 defense, something he is excited to do. He has also worked on becoming more of a leader and was chosen to break the rock at the end of summer workouts.
He showcased his potential in 2024, recording 32 tackles, 4.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and 30 pressures. That was good enough to earn a 70.4 PFF grade, the second-highest of any Florida State defensive player to play in all 12 games. Now, he just needs to be more consistent, and he should vault up draft boards.
Follow us @FSUWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes, and opinions.
This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Lindy’s Sports names FSU football’s top 2026 NFL draft prospect
Reporting by JD McCarthy, FSU Wire / FSU Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
