Landon Jackson’s football journey is one of perseverance, growth, and excellence. From dominating at Pleasant Grove High School, to developing at LSU, to shining brightly at Arkansas, he has consistently proven himself at every level
As he sets his sights on the NFL, Jackson brings with him not only a wealth of talent but also the character, leadership, and work ethic needed to succeed at the highest level.
Fans, coaches, and scouts alike are eager to see how far this Texarkana native can go. And if his college career is any indication, the best is yet to come.
While exact financial details of Jackson’s NIL contracts remain private, industry estimates suggest that deals with brands like WWE, EA Sports, and Walk-On’s typically offer five to six-figure compensation packages, depending on the scope of involvement.
Given the caliber and diversity of Jackson’s partnerships, it’s reasonable to assume that his cumulative NIL earnings place him among the higher-earning college athletes.
His ability to attract prominent brands also indicates long-term earning potential, particularly if he chooses to transition into professional sports or entertainment.
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Landon Jackson: The Rising Defensive Star Ready for the NFL Stage
Landon Jackson’s journey from a standout high school player to an elite college defensive end is a testament to his relentless work ethic, athletic talent, and strong personal foundation.1
As he officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft after a highly successful college career, Jackson is poised to make an impact at the professional level.
Let’s take a detailed look at his journey, achievements, and what makes him a top prospect for NFL teams.
Early Life and Roots in Texarkana, Texas
Landon Jackson was born and raised in Texarkana, Texas. Growing up in this small city, known for its passionate football culture, Jackson was immersed in the game from a young age.
Texarkana is a place where football is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. This environment provided the perfect backdrop for Jackson to develop his skills and cultivate his love for the game.
Raised by parents Katie Peek and Larry Jackson, Landon was brought up in a supportive household that valued hard work and discipline.
Both parents played a crucial role in guiding and encouraging him throughout his football journey. From an early age, it became clear that Jackson possessed a special blend of size, speed, and athleticism that set him apart from his peers.
— Landon Jackson (@landonjackson40) December 28, 2024
High School Dominance at Pleasant Grove
Jackson attended Pleasant Grove High School in Texarkana, where he became a household name in Texas high school football circles.
During his tenure at Pleasant Grove, Jackson put up staggering numbers on the defensive line. He racked up a remarkable 45 sacks over his high school career, establishing himself as one of the premier defensive talents in the state.
His ability to disrupt opposing offenses, combined with his leadership on and off the field, made him a highly sought-after recruit.
College scouts took notice of his relentless motor, quick first step, and ability to overpower offensive linemen, setting the stage for the next chapter in his football journey.
Landon Jackson: Career
Beginning His College Career at LSU
Following his impressive high school career, Jackson committed to play for Louisiana State University (LSU), joining one of the most prestigious programs in college football.2
In 2021, he made his debut for the LSU Tigers. Although his time at LSU was brief, he appeared in five games during his freshman season.
While he showed flashes of potential at LSU, Jackson sought a fresh start and more playing opportunities. After one season, he decided to transfer to the University of Arkansas, a move that would prove pivotal for his development as a player.
Transition to Arkansas: Finding His Stride
In 2022, Jackson officially joined the Arkansas Razorbacks football program. Under the guidance of the Razorbacks’ coaching staff, he began to flourish, showcasing his ability to make plays and be a difference-maker on the defensive front.
Over three seasons with Arkansas, Jackson appeared in 37 games, becoming an integral part of the team’s defensive unit.
His presence on the field was impossible to ignore—whether pressuring quarterbacks, stopping the run, or drawing double teams to free up his teammates. Jackson quickly emerged as a leader and a consistent performer.
Breakout Performances and Statistical Success
While Jackson’s first year at Arkansas laid the foundation, it was during his final two seasons that he truly came into his own.
He recorded an impressive 24 tackles for loss and 13 sacks across his final two campaigns, making him one of the most productive defensive ends in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
His performance against top-tier competition showcased not only his physical tools but also his football IQ. Jackson demonstrated excellent technique, a refined pass-rushing arsenal, and the ability to diagnose plays quickly.
This combination of skills caught the attention of NFL scouts and analysts alike, positioning him as a highly regarded draft prospect.
Declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft
Following his standout college career, Jackson made the decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft.
His announcement came as no surprise to Razorback fans, as his body of work over three years at Arkansas spoke volumes about his readiness to compete at the next level.
Jackson leaves college with a reputation as a relentless competitor who never takes plays off.
His size, standing at approximately 6’7” and weighing around 275 pounds, coupled with his speed and agility, make him an ideal candidate for NFL defensive schemes, whether as a traditional defensive end or in a hybrid role.
Landon Jackson: Personal Life
Family, Marriage, and Off-the-Field Presence
Off the field, Landon Jackson has built a strong support system, crediting much of his success to his family.3
His parents, Katie Peek and Larry Jackson, have been constant sources of motivation throughout his career.
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Jackson also made headlines in April 2024 when he married Grace Duffer Jackson.
The couple’s marriage was shared with fans and well-wishers via Jackson’s Instagram, where he posted heartfelt photos from their wedding ceremony.
This significant life event marked an important personal milestone for Jackson, highlighting his stability and maturity as he transitions to the professional ranks.
Razorback Legacy: Impact on Arkansas Football
Jackson’s time at Arkansas not only elevated his individual profile but also contributed to the overall success and identity of the Razorbacks’ defense.
His leadership, both in the locker room and on the field, helped mentor younger players and set a standard of excellence within the program.
His departure will undoubtedly leave big shoes to fill, but his impact will resonate for years to come. Future defensive recruits and players will look to Jackson’s example as a blueprint for what is possible at Arkansas.
What’s Next: NFL Potential and Team Fit
As Landon Jackson prepares for the NFL Draft, analysts project him as a Day 2 pick, though an impressive showing at the NFL Combine or pro day workouts could push him even higher.
Teams in need of pass-rushing help or defensive line depth will have Jackson firmly on their radar.
Ideal fits for Jackson could include teams that utilize a 4-3 defensive scheme, where he can play as a traditional defensive end, or hybrid defenses that allow him to stand up and utilize his athleticism in space.
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Landon Jackson: NIL Deals and Athletic Commitments
In recent years, the NCAA’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy has revolutionized college athletics, allowing athletes to profit from their personal brand.
Among the standout beneficiaries of this new system is Landon Jackson, whose growing prominence both on and off the field has translated into significant NIL opportunities.
As of March 2025, Jackson has signed four lucrative deals, further solidifying his position as a sought-after athlete. Here’s an in-depth look at his NIL journey, partnerships, and growing influence.
Venturing into Entertainment: WWE’s ‘Next In Line’ NIL Program
The next major step in Jackson’s NIL journey came in January 2023 when he signed with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
This wasn’t a conventional athlete-brand partnership; instead, Jackson joined WWE’s groundbreaking ‘Next In Line’ (NIL) program.
WWE’s NIL initiative aims to identify and develop future wrestling superstars from collegiate sports backgrounds.
By onboarding athletes like Landon Jackson, the program creates a pipeline of physically gifted and media-savvy individuals who might transition into professional wrestling post-college.
For Jackson, this deal was not only financially rewarding but also a strategic move to diversify his personal brand. It offered him access to WWE’s extensive marketing machinery, training facilities, and a broader audience base. His strong presence and charisma made him an ideal candidate for the program, opening up opportunities beyond football.
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Tapping into the Digital World: Partnership with EA Sports
In February 2024, Jackson ventured into the gaming industry by signing a partnership deal with EA Sports, a leading video game developer. This collaboration capitalized on the long-standing popularity of EA Sports’ titles, particularly among sports fans and college athletes.
Given Jackson’s growing fame and appeal among young fans, it made sense for EA Sports to align with him for promotional purposes. The partnership likely included Jackson’s appearance in promotional content, marketing campaigns, and perhaps integration into upcoming video game releases featuring college athletics.
This deal emphasized the shift in how college athletes are increasingly seen as cultural influencers, capable of bridging the gap between traditional sports and the booming digital entertainment market.
Strengthening Regional Roots: Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux EDGE
July 2024 marked Jackson’s most recent NIL collaboration, this time with Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux EDGE, a restaurant and sports bar chain known for supporting athletes and fostering local connections.
This partnership reflects Landon’s commitment to endorsing brands that resonate with his fan base, especially within southern communities where college football reigns supreme.
Through promotional events, social media appearances, and public endorsements, Jackson has strengthened Walk-On’s visibility while enhancing his brand presence.
This partnership underlines an essential trend in the NIL space—college athletes forming mutually beneficial alliances with brands that hold regional significance, creating win-win situations for both parties.
Landon Jackson’s Growing Social Media Influence
A critical factor behind Jackson’s marketability is his expanding presence on social media platforms.
As of March 2025, he boasts 28.1k Instagram followers and 7.3k followers on X (formerly Twitter).
These numbers may seem modest compared to professional athletes or influencers, but in the college athletics space, such followership signifies a strong and loyal fan base.
Brands evaluating NIL deals often look beyond just on-field performance; they also consider an athlete’s ability to connect with audiences digitally.
Jackson’s consistent engagement with fans, promotional content, and community initiatives has made him a valuable asset to brands looking to tap into the college demographic.
NIL Deal Tracker: A Snapshot of Landon Jackson’s Partnerships
Here’s a detailed overview of Jackson’s NIL deals, sourced from On3’s official records:
| Date | NIL Deal |
|---|---|
| 7/12/24 | Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux EDGE |
| 2/22/24 | EA Sports |
| 1/26/23 | WWE |
| 7/14/22 | Farmers Bank & Trust |
This tracker reflects not only the diversity of Jackson’s partnerships but also his growing influence across multiple industries, including finance, entertainment, gaming, and food & beverage.
The Broader Impact: Jackson’s Role in Shaping NIL Trends
- While Jackson’s NIL deals are personally beneficial, they also reflect broader shifts in the NIL landscape.
- Athletes today are not merely endorsing products—they’re curating a personal brand that resonates with different sectors of the market.
- By aligning with diverse industries such as banking, wrestling entertainment, gaming, and regional dining, Jackson has showcased the versatility of modern-day college athletes.
- His deals highlight the importance of authenticity and brand alignment, offering a blueprint for other athletes looking to navigate NIL opportunities.
- One of the critical questions surrounding NIL partnerships is how athletes manage these external commitments without compromising their performance on the field.
- Jackson has proven adept at maintaining this balance. By carefully selecting brands that complement his image and values, he avoids overextending himself.
- His partnerships are strategically spaced out over the years, ensuring that he focuses primarily on football while engaging in promotional work during off-seasons or manageable intervals.
- Moreover, his involvement in WWE’s ‘Next In Line’ program illustrates a forward-thinking approach—planning for a career beyond college sports without losing sight of immediate athletic goals.
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