Coach Aaron Jackson

By: Haroun Savage (NCMFC Staff)

For this member spotlight, I spoke to Jackson State Defensive Analyst and Asst. DL Coach Aaron Jackson. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Coach Jackson's journey led him to Mississippi during his middle school years and there he found his love for football. The culture of football in the South became embedded in Coach Jackson’s mind and he couldn’t get enough of football even when he was not playing. He volunteered as a player coach and manager when he was in 9th grade to be around the coaches to hear and see what they expected out of the players. Once he got on the field he was able to earn himself an opportunity to play at Holmes Community College.

During his two seasons at Holmes, Coach Jackson showcased his talent on the field, catching the eyes of the Grambling State University football staff, and earned himself a scholarship to play Offensive Line at Grambling. There, he had the privilege of playing under legendary coaches Doug Williams and Rod Broadway, an experience that left a huge impression on him as a player and future coach.

While playing football Coach Jackson was also able to earn his Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and was looking at careers in that field but knew he was more passionate about football. So, immediately after his playing days, Coach Jackson transitioned into coaching, beginning his career at Forest Hill High School as the Offensive Line coach for the 2012 season. Coach Jackson joined the staff at Provine High School in 2015, there he helped develop many players as their Offensive Line Coach, giving him some experience with the other side of the ball as well. After his time at Provine, Coach Jackson felt it was time to take on the challenge of coaching at the college level, leading him to accept a Defensive Line Coaching position at Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

The transition from high school to college coaching presented a significant learning curve. Though it was tough, Coach Jackson was able to take the challenge and become a better coach. These adversities prepared him when he moved on to Jackson State University as a GA. His tenure at Jackson State played a huge part in his growth, where he absorbed college-level coaching and developed his coaching philosophy.

Following his time at Jackson State, Jackson accepted a position at Hinds Community College, reuniting with coach John Hendrick who had previously hired him at Jackson State. This move showed the power of strong relationships and the work he was quietly able to do while at Jackson. During his time at Hinds, he was able to learn a lot about the game and experience JUCO football from the perspective of a coach, and he saw how important development is in building a program.

Jackson's journey came full circle when he returned to Jackson State, this time as a Defensive Analyst and Assistant Defensive Line Coach after coaching with Head Coach T.C Taylor during his first stint there. His passion for defense, particularly defensive line play, became a huge part of his coaching identity. He is committed to developing his student-athletes, emphasizing their athletic growth and personal development.

Looking ahead, Coach Jackson aspires to become a defensive coordinator at the FCS or FBS level, with the ultimate dream of becoming an NFL Head Coach. He is determined to build his career "brick by brick," demonstrating a relentless work ethic and a commitment to greatness. His mentors, John Hendrick, Dwayne Curry, Patrick Hill, and Terry Bradden, shaped his defensive strategies and coaching approach. Today, he still talks to them all to continue his growth as a coach to help develop his players further. As he continues to climb the football coaching ranks, his dedication to his players and the game remains.

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