:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17656553/23.0.png)
The Backstory: During Courtney Jackson's time in Tempe, the Sun Devil football program was very inconsistent. Even with the team's struggles Jackson became a consistent backbone his teammates needed. Jackson played high school football in Texas and became the 7th highest touted safety in the country. Therefore, plenty of offers were flowing for the 6'1" 190 pound product, and he decided to don the maroon and gold. Both of Jackson's parents are teachers, which is quite fitting because of his fundamental approach.
The Player: Courtney Jackson (1995-1998)
Jackson didn't enter the starting lineup in his freshman season, but that's basically the only thing he didn't do during his career. From then on, Jackson not only started, he did so at an elite level. Jackson made the transition from safety to cornerback appear easy, despite having average speed.
At 6'1", Jackson was taller than most cover men. Therefore, the wide receivers needed to adjust to Jackson, and failed more often than not. For example, Jackson made three consecutive All-Pac-10 teams from 1996-1998, with two first team selections and one appearance as an honorable mention.
The ASU Athletic Website described Jackson by saying: "Smart corner with good reaction skills, one of the best in Pac-10 and in the nation." In other career feats, Jackson's most passes deflected in one game was three against USC in October of 1998. In addition, Jackson notched two interceptions against California in November of that same season.
His senior campaign was his best, as he accumulated four interceptions. The success didn't end with the picks, as he returned those mistakes for 116 yards, averaging 29 yards per return. Jackson's playmaking ability could have been showcased on special teams, but the risk outweighed the reward.
Jackson should be remembered as one of the most physical and reliable cornerbacks in ASU football history.
Who Wears it Now: Cornerback Ezekiel Bishop currently wears number 23. The 5'11" 194-pound Denver, Colorado native will compete for the starting spot opposite Osahon Irabor.