Dan Jackson may not have been drafted, but that hasn’t stopped the former Georgia safety from making a strong impression in his first NFL camp.
The former walk-on turned Georgia standout is once again embracing the role of the underdog—this time in Detroit. Jackson entered the Lions’ training camp flying well under the radar, but just days in, that narrative is starting to shift. According to team insiders and reports from camp, Jackson has been steadily earning more reps with the second-team defense, a clear sign that the coaching staff is intrigued by his potential.
Known for his relentless work ethic and toughness at Georgia, Jackson made a name for himself by consistently doing the little things right. He wasn’t the flashiest player on the field, but he was dependable—a coach’s dream. That same dependability is what seems to be catching the attention of Detroit’s defensive staff.
“He’s smart, he’s tough, and he doesn’t back down,” said one Lions insider. “Those kinds of guys usually stick around longer than people think.”
Though the Lions’ secondary is stacked with veterans and high draft picks, Jackson has quietly inserted himself into the competition for one of the final safety spots. It’s still early, and making the 53-man roster is far from guaranteed, but his steady climb is one of the more intriguing stories unfolding in Allen Park.
More importantly, Jackson has shown he’s not just a camp body. He’s been solid in coverage, physical in run support, and sharp in meetings—a combination that has put him in position to possibly earn a spot not just on the roster, but maybe even on special teams units where guys like him make their name.
It’s the kind of story Detroit fans love—tough, gritty, and unexpected. And for Jackson, it’s familiar territory. He’s been doubted before. He’s been overlooked. And just like at Georgia, he’s showing that sometimes the most valuable players are the ones who don’t need a spotlight to shine.
The preseason games will be critical, especially with roster cuts looming in just a few weeks. But if Jackson keeps trending upward, don’t be surprised if the kid who started as an undrafted long shot ends up on the opening-day roster in September.
Dan Jackson Climbing the Ladder: Georgia Favorite Impressing Lions Coaches
