One of the most physically gifted cornerbacks in the entire draft, William Jackson III of the Houston Cougars became the first AAC player to hear his name called at the 2016 NFL Draft.
Jackson, a mid-round selection heading into the 2015 season, finally put everything together in an outstanding senior season. His play was culminated by a two-interception and Defensive MVP game in the Peach Bowl versus Florida State.
He possesses a rare blend of speed and size that is coveted by NFL teams, made popular by the Seattle Seahawks. Jackson ended his college career with 115 tkl, 2 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, 40 passes defensed, 8 interceptions.
Jackson ending up with the Bengals is a bit of a surprise as few to no mock drafts had him landing in Cincinnati. Many had him going one pick later to division rival Pittsburgh.
Expect Jackson to immediately compete for and secure a starting position in the defensive backfield for the Bengals.
Congrats the the William Jackson III and the Houston Cougars football program.