Is Ja'Kobi Jackson Being Overlooked?

Is Ja’Kobi Jackson being overlooked in Ohio State’s crowded running back room?

Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr continue their running back expectations series by examining one of the Buckeyes’ most difficult players to project for the 2026 season.

Jackson appeared in only four games last year before an injury ended his season, but his previous work at Florida included productive performances against Georgia, Texas, and LSU. So which version of Jackson should Ohio State expect this fall?

Tony and Tom discuss whether Jackson can carve out a consistent role behind Bo Jackson and Isaiah West, how many carries may realistically be available, and why his value could extend beyond his rushing totals. They also explore his potential as a third-down back, pass protector, and receiving threat out of the backfield.

Could Jackson become this year's version of C.J. Donaldson? Might he finish third in snaps but fourth in carries? And is a 400-yard rushing season a fair expectation—or evidence that he is being overlooked?

Let us know your Ja’Kobi Jackson projections in the comments.

0:00 — Projecting Ja’Kobi Jackson’s 2026 season
0:36 — Why Jackson is so difficult to evaluate
2:17 — His productive stretch against top SEC defenses
4:43 — Could Jackson play more than his rushing totals suggest?
7:59 — His potential impact in the passing game
10:15 — Are Ohio State’s rushing projections getting too high?

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