2017 NFL Draft: Adoree’ Jackson selected by the Tennessee Titans with the 18th overall pick

One of the most prolific players in Trojans history has taken the next step in his football career as cornerback Adoree’ Jackson was selected by the Tennessee Titans going 18th overall in the first round in the 2017 NFL Draft.

Jackson was a jack-of-all-trades in his three seasons at USC as he scored touchdowns of offense, defense and punt returns—accumulating a total of 11 touchdowns in that span.

The 2016 Jim Thorpe Award recipient saw his coverage skills increase with each passing season, as his full-time role at cornerback was a new experience. Sometimes only perceived as just a special return guy, Jackson led the Pac-12 in interceptions in 2016 and has the second most defended passes in the conference since 2005.

As a returner, Jackson led the Pac-12 kick return touchdowns in all three years at USC, and led the nation in yards per return in 2016 with a 29.5 yard per return average.

Tennessee Titans select Adoree Jackson

At the NFL Combine, Jackson was able to show off athleticism:

Measurements: 5'10″ | 186 lbs | 31 3/8” arms | 9 ¼’ hands

Vertical jump: 36.0″

Broad: 122”

40 Yard Dash: 4.42

As a prospect, Jackson is still raw at the position as he is still feeling out the nuances and developing his instincts. He’ll take chances, but Jackson most certainly has the speed to erase his mistakes.

He should initially have a role as one of the top three corners for Tennessee, but he’ll immediately give them a weapon on special teams and depending on how coach Mike Mularkey decides to use his on offense—Jackson will add some juice to the playcalling.