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ILB DQwell Jackson, Cleveland Browns

HT: 6-0, WT: 231, Born: 9-26-1983, College: Maryland, Drafted: Round 2

2008 Projections

Best Case

Jackson is a very tough and intense competitor with a great understanding of the game and outstanding work ethic. He has a nose for the ball and lines up at the ILB position that should by design, allow him to be the team's leading tackler and most productive fantasy option. As a rookie in '06 Jackson was not an every down player but still managed 60 solo tackles in 13 games. Last season he was on pace for 85 solo stops when injury cut his season a couple of games short. In his college days Jackson was a big play guy. That part of his game began to show up a little in his second season and the Browns expect even more of him in '08. If Jackson can stay healthy he has a legitimate shot at 85-90 tackles and a handful of big plays.

Worst Case

There are some reasons to doubt when it comes to Jackson's fantasy value. He's missed time at the end of both his pro seasons due to injuries and has played through nagging injuries on a number of other occasions. Durability has clearly become a concern. Jackson made a few big plays last season (1 sack, 1 fumble recovery and 1 pick) but has plenty of room for improvement in that department. There is also the presence of Leon Williams who the coaching staff has grown very fond of, and the addition of Beau Bell who many speculate will be used at ILB. Jackson remains in the Browns plans but he hasn't lived up to expectations either on the field or in the box scores. There is a chance he could end up a bust in '08.

Outlook

Jackson is a player who could go either way in '08. If things go well he could be a top 20 linebacker. If they go poorly he might not be worthy as more than a backup in deep leagues. He's a player that deserves to be drafted but should not be counted on as a starter until he proves himself.

Writeups last modified: 2008-06-15 09:27:40