5 Jackson State players to watch out for in 2022 NFL Draft

5 Jackson State players to keep an eye on

#3 - CJ Holmes, cornerback

Jackson State cornerback CJ Holmes | Credit: nfldraftdiamonds.com

CJ Holmes defended the slot for the Tigers. He was the most targeted Jackson State defender, but he defended well regardless. Holmes had 40 total tackles, which was good for seventh on the team, and his 7 passes broken up (PUBs) were second only to fellow cornerback Al Young. Holmes gave up a fair amount of yardage and TD receptions, given the nature of the slot position. That being said, he boasted a 52.9% completion rate. NFL teams with a need for a slot cornerback will gladly take a flier on Holmes. Holmes projects to be a day three draft pick.

#2 - Al Young, cornerback

Jackson State cornerback Al Young and Deion Sanders | Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images

It’s no surprise that a Hall-of-Fame NFL cornerback like Deion Sanders will produce NFL-caliber cornerbacks at the college level. Sanders projects to have two cornerbacks drafted in the NFL, which is quite a feat considering that Jackson State is a smaller football program.

Al Young is a physical cornerback that teams can move around in any position. Young led the team in PBUs (11) in 2021, and he allowed only a 32.8% complete rate. By shutting down his side of the field, NFL Scouts love his defensive presence, and NFL teams looking for a boost in their secondary will certainly look Young’s way. Young projects to be a day two draft prospect as a reliable outside defender.

#1 - James Houston, edge/linebacker

Jackson State edge defender James Houston | Source: Jackson State Athletics

James Houston might be Jackson State’s best prospect for 2022. Houston previously played linebacker for Florida from 2017 to 2020. He switched to the defensive end and dominated the college football season when he joined Jackson State.

Houston totaled 70 tackles, 24.5 for loss, 16.5 sacks, and seven forced fumbles. His best comparison is Dallas Cowboys linebacker, Micah Parsons. Although Houston is smaller than Parsons, he could play a similar hybrid role as linebacker/edge rusher. Due to his size, he is not primarily projected to play, but a hybrid part might be more suitable for him. Houston projects to be a day one or two draft pick.