After a 33-8 victory against Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl on Friday night, Florida football was hit with its first NFL Draft departure on Saturday afternoon, as senior defensive lineman Cam Jackson announced his intention to pursue a career in the NFL.
The two-year starter tallied 59 tackles and two sacks while playing for the Gators. Before he arrived in Gainesville in 2023, the defensive stalwart spent three seasons at Memphis. He tallied another 2.5 sacks and 51 tackles while playing for the Tigers.
Jackson’s most successful performance at Florida was his final one, as the defensive tackle recorded both of his UF sacks against Florida State on Nov. 30. The senior was injured against the Seminoles and missed UF’s bowl game against Tulane. Jackson expressed disappointment that he couldn't play in his final game at UF.
“This hurt me more... Knowing I can’t finish what I started with my guys, but best believe they are going to handle business,” Jackson said.
As the offseason begins, the senior will prepare for his professional future. If he gets an invite, the NFL Combine will begin on Feb. 27. UF will hold its pro day on March 21, and the NFL Draft will take place April 24-26.
Contact Noah White at nwhite@alligator.org. Follow him on X at @noahwhite1782
Noah White is a sophomore majoring in journalism and public relations and The Alligator's Women's Tennis Reporter. In his free time, Noah writes some more and plays soccer and volleyball. He also knows more about Liberty League women's soccer than you do.
