SANTA CLARA — Drake Jackson wasn’t expecting to get a shoutout from Micah Parsons this week, but that’s what happens when you have a three-sack game in your season debut.
Parsons, the Cowboys star edge rusher, showed love for Jackson, the 49ers second-year defensive end, during his latest podcast which was published Tuesday. On Wednesday, Jackson told reporters in Santa Clara that he appreciated the kind words from one of the game’s elite players.
“That was pretty cool,” Jackson said. “Shoutout to Micah Parsons for that. That’s a real good shoutout, especially from another prolific pass-rusher in the league. It (surprised me). Another guy from another team – just to see that they’re paying attention out there in the league that’s really cool.”
Jackson was a healthy scratch for most of the 49ers final games last season as he fell out of favor with the coaching staff. After transforming his body and adding more bulk, while maintaining his explosiveness, Jackson only needed one week to match his sack total from his rookie season.
“We gotta keep going on the gas until we get more,” Jackson said. “It’s not just a one-time thing.”
If Jackson can keep being a weekly threat off the edge, you can make a strong argument that the Niners have the NFL’s most complete defensive line. Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa is roaming on the other end, while prized free agent Javon Hargrave and defensive captain Arik Armstead are anchoring the middle. Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw also looks to be a force (finally) and defensive end Clelin Ferrell provides the Niners with a solid backup for Jackson and Bosa.
“Those guys were just thrashing,” Jackson said. “We all thrash together. Once something opens up, we just wanna finish.”
It’s no surprise that Jackson thinks the 49ers are the top d-line in the league.
“I think we the best, always,” Jackson said. “That’s just that. I don’t wanna think no one’s better than us.”
This week, the 49ers will be zeroed in on stopping Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matt Stafford, who went 24-of-38 for 334 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions in the 30-13 Week 1 win over the Seattle Seahawks.
“Stafford’s one the best in the league and he showed that last week,” Bosa said. “We’re gonna have to pressure him and make him uncomfortable. But it’s pretty revamped o-line with some new guys, so we’ll have to watch some tape and get a feel.”