With the start of the rookie mini-camp, coaches can talk more to the media. With this, there is an update on the San Francisco 49ers’ edge rusher, Drake Jackson. Jackson started the 2022 season on the active roster but became a healthy stretch during playoffs. Here is a look at how Drake Jackson has been progressing ahead of his second year.
Drake Jackson’s Progression
49ers DE Drake Jackson (95) – Bruce Kluckhohn/AP Photo
Drake Jackson Drafted
Jackson attended USC for three years before being drafted by San Francisco in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In his three years, Jackson had 12.5 sacks and 25 tackles for loss, according to Sports Reference. He also had two interceptions, four pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. Despite being a second-round pick, Jackson has not completely stood out on San Francisco’s defense. There are still high hopes for his development.
Drake Jackson 2022 Season
Last season, there was hope for Jackson. While Charles Omenihu beat him out for the starting spot, Jackson still got many reps throughout the season. It was not until playoffs that Jackson was not making the active roster. While this was odd then, the defense still held its own. In the regular season, Jackson ended up playing in 15 games.
Throughout the 2022 season, Jackson had 14 combined tackles, eight solo, and three sacks. He also had six quarterback hits, eight pass deflections, and one interception. Of his 15 games, he never started any but was put in the rotation. Despite not being a starter, San Francisco runs a defensive line that utilizes every active player. Those who are not starters can still make a big difference on this team.
49ers DE Drake Jackson (95) – Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images
Drake Jackson’s 2023 Off-Season
Jackson is the current projected starter to play on the other side of Nick Bosa. The 49ers did draft Robert Beal Jr., but as of now, it is Jackson’s job to lose. With the coaches speaking to the media, there have been more updates on how Jackson has improved in the off-season.
New defensive coordinator, Steve Wilks spoke highly of the work Jackson has put in this off-season. Wilks stated to the media that Jackson remained at the facility throughout the off-season to continue his training. This was already known based on social media posts, but still something important to hear.
Wilks pointed out that Jackson is doing everything that he must to improve his game. This includes gaining weight and working with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek. Now, Jackson just needs to show what he can do on the field. Playing with a new defensive coordinator can be a tough transition, but the team keeping Kocurekk was crucial.
With Jackson and Bosa as the edge rushers, the two starting defensive tackles are expected to be Arik Armstead and Javon Hargrave. Although Jackson still needs to prove himself, if the four of them remain healthy, the 49ers will be set during the 2023 season. Drafting Beal was necessary with little depth at that position, but it can also bring in more competition.
49ers DE Drake Jackson (95) – Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images
The 49ers will also have Kerry Hyder Jr. and Clelin Ferrell next in the depth chart. Hyder has proven that he can do well in the rotation. In the short time he left to play with the Seattle Seahawks, Hyder did not do well and returned to San Francisco as a depth piece.
The 49ers also have had a history of putting young players in the “dog house.” Brandon Aiyuk experienced this and became the team’s top receiver in 2022. Young players have to work for a spot on the active roster, and it will never be handed to them just because they were drafted. Even safety Talanoa Hufanga spent a season on the special teams before joining the 11 men on defense.
Just because Jackson became a healthy scratch does not mean he will not succeed. Jackson putting in the work and staying at the facility is important. While every player works in the off-season, Jackson was physically there to show it. Working with Kocurek could have a lot of potential in the 2023 season.
Now all the fans can do is wait until the season, but knowing Drake Jackson is putting in the work demonstrates good signs for how the 2023 season can go for him.
