Former Alabama Defensive Back Named Broncos Captain

Denver Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett announces that Kareem Jackson will be a team captain for the remainder of the season. Jackson joins fellow safety Justin Simmons as the second defensive captain.

"He's a guy that's played a lot of games and been around this league a long time," Hackett said. "I personally have so much respect for him. Our team does and he's one of the leaders of our team. So he'll be the full-time captain for the defense going forward".

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Jackson primarily played running back in high school, but became a cornerback during his one year of prep school at Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia. He committed to Alabama just 19 days after Nick Saban was hired as Alabama's head coach.

In 2007, Jackson had perhaps the best season of his collegiate career. Despite being a freshman, he played in all 13 games, recording 66 tackles, and three interceptions. In his sophomore season, he played a major role in leading Alabama to an undefeated regular season and the first SEC Championship appearance under Coach Saban.

Jackson was also a cornerstone of the elite 2009 defense, helping Alabama win its' first national title under Nick Saban. He deserves to be known as one of the foundations of the dynasty because he was one of Saban's first recruits that made an immediate impact.

Photo Courtesy of John Michael Simpson

After a remarkable collegiate career, the Houston Texans selected Jackson with the 20th pick in the first round of the 2010 Draft. During his nine years in Houston, Jackson recorded recorded 559 tackles and 16 interceptions.

In 2019, he signed a three-year, $33 million dollar contract with the Broncos. Despite playing the last 12 years as a cornerback, Jackson converted to play safety for the Broncos. In 2021, Jackson led all Broncos in tackles with 89.

He has an argument to have the most longevity of any former Alabama player that is currently in the NFL. The 34-year old is playing in his 14th season in the NFL which is the longest-tenured Saban player in the NFL.