After earning a varsity letter in 1975 with Michigan State, he transferred to Los Angeles Southwest College, spending the 1976 season with their team.
He finished his education with the school, and played tight end on their varsity team in both seasons with the university.
Against the St. Louis Cardinals in week two, he made his first career catch (7 yards) before suffering a season-ending knee injury.
[6] Jackson moved to the United States Football League (USFL) in their inaugural season of 1983, being signed by the Arizona Wranglers.
[7] He made a final comeback attempt the following year with the Oklahoma Outlaws, but was released in training camp.