Malik Jackson (linebacker) facts for kids

Malik Jackson (born June 10, 1985) is a former professional American and Canadian football player. He played as a linebacker, a position where players stop the opposing team. Malik played for several teams, including the Oakland Raiders, Albany Firebirds, Calgary Stampeders, and Ottawa Redblacks.

Malik Jackson's Early Life and High School Years

Malik Jackson was born on June 10, 1985, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up and went to Dunwoody High School in Georgia for four years. During his time in high school, Malik played as a defensive back. This position helps stop the other team's passes.

In his final year of high school, Malik was a star player. He made 93 tackles, which means he stopped the ball carrier many times. He also had four forced fumbles, where he knocked the ball loose from an opponent.

Malik Jackson's College Football Journey

Malik Jackson played college football for the Louisville Cardinals. He showed great skill and improved each year.

Freshman Year: Starting Strong

In 2004, as a freshman, Malik played in 11 games. He mostly played on special teams, which are units used for kicking plays. He recorded eight tackles during this season. In one game against Army, he made three tackles, which was his best game so far.

Sophomore Season: More Tackles

During his second year in 2005, Malik played in all 12 games. He made a career-high 30 tackles that season. He had four tackles in his first game as a starter against North Carolina. Later, he made seven tackles against Oregon State, setting a new personal record.

Junior Year: Becoming a Star

In 2006, as a junior, Malik played in all 13 games for the Cardinals. This included a big game called the Orange Bowl. He was one of the top players on his team, making 57 tackles. He was also one of the best in his conference for sacks and tackles for a loss. A sack is when a player tackles the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage. A tackle for a loss means stopping the ball carrier before they gain any yards.

Malik led his team with nine sacks and 16 tackles for a loss. In the Orange Bowl, he had four tackles and two tackles for a loss. He also got a sack and recovered a fumble. After this great season, he was named to the second-team All-Big East team. This means he was recognized as one of the best players in his college conference.

Malik Jackson's Professional Career

After college, Malik Jackson went on to play professional football. He played in both American and Canadian leagues.

Oakland Raiders: A Start in the NFL

On April 28, 2008, Malik Jackson signed with the Oakland Raiders. He joined them as an undrafted free agent, meaning he wasn't chosen in the main player draft. He played as a linebacker for the Raiders. He was with the team for a short time before being released in August 2008.

Albany Firebirds: Arena Football Experience

In 2009, Malik signed with the Albany Firebirds, a team in the af2 league (a smaller arena football league). He made his debut on May 9, showing his skills with four tackles and three pass breakups. While playing for Albany, Malik showed his versatility by playing both defensive back and linebacker.

Calgary Stampeders: A Long Run in Canada

Malik Jackson then moved to the Canadian Football League (CFL). He signed with the Calgary Stampeders on May 13, 2009. He played as a linebacker for them. In his first game, he made a special teams tackle. Special teams are groups of players who play during kickoffs, punts, and field goals.

In a big win against the Toronto Argonauts, Malik had an amazing game. He made six tackles, two sacks, and forced a fumble. He was even considered for the league's defensive player of the week award! Malik played for the Stampeders for five seasons, from 2009 to 2013. During this time, he made 214 tackles, 11 sacks, and even scored two defensive touchdowns. In 2013, he broke his arm, which limited him to only two games that season.

Ottawa Redblacks: New Team, New Chapter

After his time with the Stampeders, Malik Jackson became a free agent. On February 12, 2014, he signed with the Ottawa Redblacks, another team in the Canadian Football League. He continued his professional football career with them.