2013 prospect Jonathan Jackson attends Mayfield High School, one of the most prestigious high school football programs in the state of Kentucky. The 6’0, 215-pound RB/LB had one goal heading into his junior season: win a state championship, a feat that has been accomplished eight times at Mayfield.
Mayfield went undefeated through the regular season and eventually made it to the state championship. However, they lost to Hazard High School, 6-24, and fell short of Jackson’s top goal. And although Mayfield put together a superb season at 14-1, Jackson felt disappointed.
“It was a pretty good year overall,” explained Jackson. “But, we still didn’t accomplish the one goal that we set out to. All-in-all, I had a pretty good year myself, but like I said, we didn’t win a state championship so all of the individual awards and stats don’t mean much.”
Jackson has wasted no time looking forward to next season. Once again, he expects nothing less than a state title.
“Going to a tradition rich program like Mayfield, you expect a state title every year,” said Jackson. “Nothing less. And that is what we strive for. We have a great fan base and a very supportive community that is behind us 100%.”
Jackson understands much of Mayfield’s success may be on his shoulders. He has set high standards for himself.
“I want to gain 2,000 yards rushing, 20 TDs, 160 tackles, and five interceptions. It’s very likely I can do that. I set personal goals this year and passed them. I know I can do it again next year if I set my mind to it.
And I’m going to be a senior, so I am going to lead my teammates on and off the field more than I ever have. I will make sure we don’t go out like we did last year.”
Jackson is being recruited by many high-profile football programs around the country.
“Louisville, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Vandy, Kentucky, Penn State, Oregon, Nebraska, and a few others have sent me things. I have offers from WKU and Murray State.”
Being a highly-touted recruit like Jackson doesn’t just happen. A player must possess a unique set of skills and Jackson shared some aspects of his game that he believe stick out.
“The strengths I have in my game are my football IQ and my ability to tackle. I know all of the blocking schemes and I can lay the wood as well. I’m versatile too; I can play safety and guard slot receivers.”
But, Jackson, just like any other high school recruit, has much room for improvement. What would he say is his main weaknesses?
“If I had one, it would be my coverage skills,” said Jackson, who is being recruited as a linebacker by Kentucky. “But I have come a long way in that area; I had five interceptions last year.”
Coach Phillips and Coach Summers have been the coaches recruiting Jackson. Jackson shares high praise on the duo.
“They’re both great men. They are very good men and the type of guys I’d want to spend four years of my life around. They would make me a better player and help me meet my full potential as a player and as a man in life if I went to the University of Kentucky.”
Jackson has visited Kentucky twice now[FONT="]—[/FONT]both unofficial. He was able to watch Kentucky play against Florida, where the Wildcats lost 48-10, and also attended a camp.
“They both went well. The game was a great atmosphere and UK put up a great fight. I love SEC football! And at the camp, I got to showcase my talents and got a chance to speak to all of the coaches.”
When asked whether Jackson thought he would receive a scholarship from Kentucky down the road, he had very little doubt in his mind.
“I’m sure I will,” suggested Jackson, who did say he has not had conversations with the coaches regarding that subject yet.
Jackson said he plans to visit all the schools he is getting interest from on their junior days, if possible.
