Earnest Jackson

Earnest Jackson (born December 18, 1959) is an American former professional football player who was a running back in the National Football League (NFL). He was named to the Pro Bowl twice.

Early life and college

Born in Needville, Texas, Jackson graduated from Lamar Consolidated High School before going to Texas A&M University in 1979. In four seasons with the Aggies, Jackson had over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and 5 touchdowns. He led the Southwest Conference in rushing yards per attempt in 1981 with 5.8 yards per carry.

Professional career

Jackson played a total of six seasons in the NFL.[citation needed] He was drafted in the eighth round of the 1983 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers. He played with the Chargers in 1983 and 1984, when he led the American Football Conference in rushing, with 1,179 yards for the year. He earned a starting role in the 1985 Pro Bowl. In 1985, he had another 1,000 yard-plus season, this time with the Philadelphia Eagles for 1,028 yards.

His last three NFL seasons were from 1986 to 1988 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 1986, he was once again a Pro Bowler running for 910 yards and 5 touchdowns. Earnest Jackson ended his career with 4,167 yards on 1059 carries along with 22 touchdowns. He also caught the ball for 695 yards on 87 receptions and 2 touchdowns.

Jackson wore number 43 in Pittsburgh, where it is now unofficially retired for Hall of Fame safety Troy Polamalu.

NFL career statistics