Saints linebacker D'Marco Jackson never went away during his rookie season, but he did suffer through a lost year due to injury.
He's back now, he's "feeling great," and he's got a chance to step into a key role in Year 2 behind Demario Davis.
"It feels great just getting the pads back on, seeing the game, playing in the game," Jackson told WWL. "It’s a great feeling. I mean, that’s what linebacker is all about, hitting and coming down. So it’s good to finally get back out there on the field."
Last year it was Kaden Elliss stepping into a key role when Pete Werner went down with injury, but he's now in Atlanta after landing a big deal in free agency. Jackson, in his second season since being picked in the 5th round out of Appalachian State, is in a crowded room of linebackers with no clear pecking order. That's particularly true after veteran and special teams ace suffered a season-ending injury in practice. Other names include Nephi Sewell, Anfernee Orji and Nick Anderson.
So far it's been mostly work at the mike LB position for Jackson, with reps coming behind Davis. It's unclear who would step in if Werner misses games again.
Jackson flashed some of his coverage ability, which is a bigger factor at the Will spot, with a pass breakup as he ranged toward the sideline during Wednesday's practice.
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"Whatever they throw at me I just try to learn it and just be the best player I can in that position," he said. "Soak up everything I can from the people that’s in front of me and just be the best player.”
In the end Jackson knows his biggest footprint will be left on special teams, so he's focused on learning all the roles in that regard. With the way the Saints operate, they have everyone learn (pretty much) everything. He'll focus on that now as he grows into a bigger role.
"You’ve just got to know it all," he said. "But I feel like special teams, it’s a way I’m going to earn my way on the field.”
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