Eddie Jackson (chef) facts for kids
| Born | Eddie Paul Jackson Jr. December 19, 1980 Americus, Georgia, U.S. |
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| Education | University of Arkansas |
| Spouse | Melissa Morris |
Quick facts for kids
Television show(s)
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Eddie Paul Jackson Jr. (born December 19, 1980) is an American chef and a former professional football player. He is famous for his amazing journey from playing as a cornerback in the NFL to becoming a star on the Food Network.
Before his cooking career, Jackson played for several NFL teams, including the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots. After retiring from football, he followed his passion for food and won the popular TV show Food Network Star.
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College Sports Career
In college, Jackson attended the University of Arkansas, where he was a talented two-sport athlete. He played for the Arkansas Razorbacks football team. Over his college career, he played in 47 games and made 174 tackles.
Besides football, Jackson was also a star on the university's track and field team. He was a College All-American in track, winning four national titles. He still holds the university's freshman record for the 110-meter high hurdles.
Professional Football Career
Starting in the NFL
In 2004, Jackson began his professional football career when he was signed by the Carolina Panthers. This was a big achievement, as he was an undrafted free agent, meaning he wasn't chosen in the main NFL draft but still earned a spot on the team.
Playing for Different Teams
In 2005 and 2006, Jackson played for the Miami Dolphins. His time with the Dolphins ended after he suffered a serious knee injury during a game on Christmas Day in 2006.
In 2007, he signed a two-year contract with the New England Patriots. He later played for the Washington Redskins in 2008 before his football career came to an end.
A New Career in Cooking
After retiring from football, Jackson didn't slow down. He became a personal trainer and started his own food truck in Houston called Caribbean Grill. Cooking had always been a passion for him.
Becoming a TV Chef
Jackson's cooking skills first got public attention in 2013. He competed on Season 4 of the cooking competition show MasterChef, where he impressed the judges and finished in eighth place.
In 2015, Jackson's life changed when he joined Season 11 of Food Network Star. He competed against eleven other talented cooks and won the entire competition.
Hosting and Judging on Food Network
Winning Food Network Star launched Jackson's television career. His prize was his own show, BBQ Blitz, which aired in 2015. He has since become a familiar face on the Food Network.
Some of the popular shows he has been a part of include:
- Host of Kids BBQ Championship, where young chefs show off their grilling skills.
- Host of Christmas Cookie Challenge, a festive baking competition.
- Host of Outchef'd, where home cooks get a surprise chance to compete against a professional chef.
- Judge on exciting shows like Halloween Wars, Chopped, and Supermarket Stakeout.
- Team Captain on BBQ Brawl, where he competed against famous chefs Bobby Flay and Michael Symon.
Eddie Jackson continues to be a popular host and judge, sharing his love for food with millions of viewers.
