Despite just being a junior, Jahzon Jacks has begun to make a name for himself. A defensive lineman from St. Mary’s in Stockton, Jacks showcased his abilities at the National Preps Collegiate Showcase at Vacaville Christian High School, where he won co-DL MVP along with Miles Bailey of Benicia.
“I don’t think I was really surprised, but I was more relieved because I feel like I did well in the drills and events, but I still have a lot of things to work on," Jacks said. "I think I did a lot of good stuff and I showed off my talents and what I’ve been working on during the quarantine."
The number one thing that Jacks wishes to improve upon is his pass rushing ability. However, he also has many positive attributes, all which helped him to earn the co-MVP award.
“I think my best attributes are shedding blocks," Jacks said. "I feel like I can do that pretty well, and hustle, that gets me to where I need to be in the play."
Jacks also has an excellent frame, at 6-4½, 257 pounds with an outstanding 81-inch wingspan, which was tied for the longest out of 180 players on the Top Performers list.
"Jahzon has size, length and excellent athletic ability, and he played well at defensive end for us as a sophomore last season," St. Mary's head coach Tony Franks said. "In this extended off-season he's become much faster and stronger, and improved technique both in the weight room and on the field."
With COVID-19 delaying the season, the landscape of offers from college is changing, as there is no way for scouts to watch players. Still, Jacks currently has an offer from Fresno State and is preparing so that he may improve his standing with scouts if a season does play out.
“I appreciate all the love they’re showing me, and I don’t have any other offers at the moment, but I prepare by working out, keep grinding, keep working on my craft and getting my strength and speed up. I'm using this time as a benefit instead of a setback,” Jacks said. “Once we have the season I can show all my talents that I’ve been working on and ball out.”
Jacks’ efforts haven’t gone unnoticed either. His coach believes that he could piece together a nice season for himself.
"He should be able to pressure the pass and be an excellent run stopper," Franks said. "We expect him to be a significant playmaker on the field and a leader in our locker room, as well as on our campus."
While Jacks may not have many offers yet, Brandon Huffman, the National Recruiting Editor for 247Sports.com, sees a bright future for the young lineman.
"I saw him in Fresno and then again in Vacaville and even in those two months, he looked bigger, more explosive and stronger," Huffman said. "He's got a really bright future."
Jacks’ future goals are by no means small either. Not only does Jacks want to make it to the National Football League, but he also wants to be the best ever at his position.
“My future plan is to do everything I can to be the best defensive lineman there ever was, that’s my goal,” Jacks said.
Football has been a part of Jacks’ life ever since he first picked up a ball at four years old. It’s become a major part in his life, and he doesn’t want to give it up anytime soon.
“I’ve played football all my life, and I don’t know what I’d do without it," Jacks said. "It’s part of me, and it’s not really like a sport anymore, it’s a lifestyle."
