Steven Jackson
Steven Rashad Jackson (born July 22, 1983) is an American former professional football running back who played twelve seasons in the National Football League (NFL), most notably with the St. Louis Rams, for whom he set the franchise record for career rushing yards with 10,138.[1][2] A three-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time second-team All-Pro, Jackson amassed 11,438 career rushing yards (19th all-time as of 2025) and 69 rushing touchdowns over 160 games, while also contributing 3,683 receiving yards, establishing himself as one of the league's premier dual-threat backs during the 2000s and 2010s.[1] Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jackson attended Eldorado High School, where he rushed for 6,396 yards and 81 touchdowns, leading his team to the state final in 2000.[3] Jackson's college career at Oregon State University from 2001 to 2003 was marked by exceptional production, including a school-record 1,690 rushing yards as a sophomore in 2002, when he earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors and third-team All-American recognition; over three seasons, he totaled 3,625 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns, leading the conference in multiple categories each year.[4][5] Selected 24th overall by the Rams in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft, he quickly emerged as a workhorse back, achieving eight consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons from 2005 to 2012 despite the team's frequent losing records, including a franchise-worst 2-14 mark in 2009.[1][5] His tenure with the Rams included standout performances like a career-high 2,334 scrimmage yards in 2006, and he remains one of only six running backs in NFL history with at least eight straight 1,000-yard seasons.[1] After signing with the Atlanta Falcons in 2013, Jackson added 1,250 rushing yards over two seasons before a brief stint with the New England Patriots in 2015, from which he retired later that year.[1] Post-retirement, Jackson has pursued philanthropy, business ventures, and media work, founding the Steven Jackson Foundation in 2004 to support literacy, after-school programs, and educational technology initiatives; he also established the Jackson Family Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Fund at Oregon State in 2022 to aid underrepresented faculty and staff.[6] Completing his bachelor's degree in human development and family sciences from Oregon State in 2020 after returning to finish his education, he serves on the university's Foundation Board of Trustees and Athletic Director Board while co-founding the lifestyle brand OBS and the Original Barber School in Las Vegas.[6] As an analyst for ESPN, NFL Network, and Fox Business News, Jackson discusses sports, business, and social issues, and in 2025, he began working as a credentialed photographer at NFL games; he was inducted into the Oregon State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023.[6][4][7]Early years
Family background and childhood
Steven Rashad Jackson was born on July 22, 1983, in Las Vegas, Nevada, to parents Steve and Brenda Jackson.[3] His father, a Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, worked as a pit boss at Caesars Palace, providing a stable environment in the midst of the city's vibrant yet potentially distracting surroundings.[8][9] Jackson grew up in a close-knit family with two older sisters, Rhonda and Yolanda, in Las Vegas, where his parents emphasized discipline and guidance to shield him from the temptations of "sin city."[3][8] This upbringing instilled values of hard work and focus, as his family navigated the challenges of raising children in a high-stakes entertainment hub while prioritizing education and positive activities.[8] From an early age, Jackson developed a passion for football through family bonding, frequently watching NFL games alongside his father and idolizing Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton for his graceful style and toughness.[9] This exposure, rooted in his father's military background and shared enthusiasm for the sport, shaped his early character and laid the groundwork for his athletic pursuits, even as he explored other childhood interests like video games and outdoor play common to Las Vegas youth.[9]High school career
Steven Jackson attended Eldorado High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he emerged as a dominant running back during his high school career.[1] Over four years with the Sundevils, he amassed 6,396 rushing yards and 81 touchdowns, setting school records and establishing himself as one of the top prospects in the nation.[3] In his junior and senior seasons, Jackson rushed for over 1,000 yards each year, showcasing his power and speed as a 6-foot-1, 210-pound back.[10] His senior year in 2000 was particularly standout, as he carried the ball 386 times for 2,764 yards and 34 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-State honors from the Las Vegas Sun and Sunrise Regional MVP recognition.[10] These performances helped lead Eldorado to the Nevada state championship game, though they fell short against McQueen High School.[11] His combination of size, vision, and productivity drew widespread attention from college recruiters, with Oregon State ultimately securing his commitment as a highly touted four-star prospect.[12] This recruitment process highlighted his potential as a workhorse back capable of handling heavy workloads, influenced in part by his family's encouragement to use football as a means to overcome early life challenges.[3]College career
Oregon State Beavers
Steven Jackson enrolled at Oregon State University in the summer of 2001, joining the Beavers football program shortly after its landmark 2000 season that culminated in a dominant 41–9 victory over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl, a success that elevated the team's national profile and attracted top recruits like Jackson.[13][14] As a true freshman in 2001, he served primarily as a backup running back, appearing in 11 games and gaining valuable experience behind established starters while adapting to the Pac-10's competitive demands.[5][15] Jackson's development accelerated in his sophomore year of 2002, when he emerged as the Beavers' lead running back and a cornerstone of the offense, rushing for 1,690 yards and 15 touchdowns over 13 games to help Oregon State achieve an 8–5 record and secure a spot in the Insight Bowl.[5][4] His explosive performances, including standout games against California (239 yards) and Fresno State (227 yards), powered the team's contention within the Pac-10 Conference, where he earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors and third-team All-American recognition, solidifying his role as a versatile, workhorse back capable of both rushing and receiving contributions.[4][16] Academically, Jackson pursued studies at Oregon State, balancing the rigors of a major college football program with coursework, though he left after his junior year in 2003 to enter the NFL Draft; he later returned to complete his bachelor's degree in human development and family sciences in 2020, fulfilling a personal promise to his mother.[17][18] Off the field, he exhibited leadership qualities by mentoring younger teammates and engaging in community initiatives, drawing on his experiences as a high-profile athlete to foster team unity during Oregon State's transitional years under coach Dennis Erickson.[19] In 2003, Jackson's junior season saw him rush for 1,545 yards and a Pac-10-leading 19 touchdowns, further anchoring the Beavers' 8–5 campaign and bowl appearance, despite a midseason ankle injury.[5][20] He recovered effectively, returning to full strength and demonstrating resilience that defined his rapid rise from freshman contributor to NFL prospect, while helping maintain Oregon State's relevance in Pac-10 play.[4]College statistics and achievements
During his three seasons at Oregon State University from 2001 to 2003, Steven Jackson established himself as one of the Pac-10 Conference's premier running backs, earning first-team All-Pac-10 honors in both 2002 and 2003.[4] In 2003, he was named a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, recognizing the nation's top running back.[21] Additionally, Jackson received third-team All-American recognition from the Associated Press in 2002 and third-team All-American honors from the Associated Press along with honorable mention All-American honors from College Football News and Sports Illustrated in 2003.[22] Jackson's statistical output demonstrated his versatility as a rusher and receiver. The following table summarizes his year-by-year performance:| Season | Games | Rushing Att./Yds./Avg./TD | Receiving Rec./Yds./Avg./TD | Total Yds./TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 (Freshman) | 11 | 74/390/5.3/5 | 5/45/9.0/1 | 435/6 |
| 2002 (Sophomore) | 13 | 319/1,690/5.3/15 | 17/165/9.7/2 | 1,855/17 |
| 2003 (Junior) | 13 | 350/1,545/4.4/19 | 44/470/10.7/3 | 2,015/22 |
| Career | 37 | 743/3,625/4.9/39 | 66/680/10.3/6 | 4,305/45 |
Professional career
2004 NFL Draft and rookie season
Jackson was selected by the St. Louis Rams in the first round, 24th overall, of the 2004 NFL Draft, making him the first running back chosen that year.[1] The Rams traded up from the 26th pick, acquired from the Cincinnati Bengals, to secure him after Jackson's impressive college production at Oregon State boosted his draft stock.[1] At 6 feet 1 inch and 241 pounds, he was viewed as a powerful, versatile back capable of complementing the aging Marshall Faulk.[26] Prior to the draft, Jackson underwent surgery for a sports hernia, causing him to miss the NFL Scouting Combine.[26] He impressed at Oregon State's pro day, recording a 4.55-second 40-yard dash and 16 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press, metrics that highlighted his speed and strength for a back of his size.[27][28] In his rookie season, Jackson served primarily as a backup to Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk, appearing in 14 games with 3 starts while learning the professional game.[1] He rushed for 673 yards on 134 carries with 4 touchdowns, averaging 5.0 yards per attempt, and added 24 receptions for 159 yards, demonstrating his dual-threat potential early on.[1] The Rams finished 8-8 and earned a wild card playoff berth, with Jackson contributing to their postseason push.[26] Jackson made his NFL debut on September 12, 2004, against the Arizona Cardinals, rushing for 50 yards on 7 carries in a 17-10 victory, though he fumbled once.[29] A notable early highlight came on November 14 against the Seattle Seahawks, where he scored his first home touchdown on a 4-yard run during a 33-27 overtime win that helped keep the Rams in playoff contention.[30] Adapting to the NFL's increased physicality proved challenging but manageable, as Jackson credited Faulk's mentorship for helping him adjust to the league's demands and pace.[26]St. Louis Rams tenure (2005–2012)
Following Marshall Faulk's retirement after the 2005 season, Steven Jackson emerged as the St. Louis Rams' primary running back, taking on a central role in the offense during a period of team rebuilding. His physical running style, combining power and elusiveness, made him the focal point of the Rams' ground game, often facing stacked defenses amid inconsistent quarterback play and offensive line support.[31] Jackson's emergence solidified his status as the franchise's workhorse back, carrying the load for an offense that struggled overall. Jackson achieved peak performance in several seasons, most notably in 2006 when he rushed for 1,528 yards and 13 touchdowns on 346 carries, earning Second-Team All-Pro honors and his first Pro Bowl selection.[1] He replicated his productivity in 2009 with 1,416 rushing yards on 324 carries despite the team's league-worst 1-15 record, again securing Second-Team All-Pro recognition.[1] These standout campaigns highlighted his ability to produce elite numbers even as the Rams posted a 36-91-1 record from 2005 to 2012, underscoring his individual excellence amid collective team challenges.[32] Despite his heavy workload, Jackson demonstrated remarkable durability, appearing in 117 of 128 possible games from 2005 to 2012.[1] He battled recurring injuries, including a partial groin tear in 2007 that sidelined him for four games, and a thigh strain in 2008 that caused another four absences. Additional setbacks, such as quadriceps strains in 2011 and various lower-body issues including knee inflammation, tested his resilience, yet he consistently returned to lead the offense.[33] In recognition of his value, Jackson signed a six-year contract extension in August 2008 worth up to $49.3 million, with $21 million guaranteed, following a training camp holdout. This deal affirmed his importance as the Rams' offensive cornerstone during their lean years, where he often shouldered the majority of the rushing attempts and receiving work out of the backfield.[34]Atlanta Falcons stint (2013–2014)
Following his release from the St. Louis Rams in March 2013, where his durability had established him as the franchise's all-time leading rusher, Steven Jackson signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons, including $4 million guaranteed.[35] The deal positioned Jackson as the primary back in an offense led by quarterback Matt Ryan, aiming to balance the passing attack with a stronger ground game under head coach Mike Smith. In the 2013 season, Jackson's integration into the Falcons' scheme was disrupted by a hamstring injury suffered in Week 2 against his former team, causing him to miss the next four games. He returned to play in 12 games, rushing for 543 yards and six touchdowns on 157 carries, providing a complementary power element to Ryan's league-leading 4,595 passing yards and helping maintain offensive balance despite the team's 4-12 record. His receiving contributions, with 33 catches for 191 yards and one touchdown, added versatility to the run-heavy emphasis Smith sought to implement after the Falcons ranked last in rushing the prior year.[37] Jackson entered the 2014 training camp with renewed focus on the ground game but suffered another hamstring strain in late July, though he recovered to play 15 games.[38] His performance showed improvement in volume, with 707 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 190 carries, yet observers noted a decline in explosiveness at age 31, averaging just 3.7 yards per carry amid the Falcons' 6-10 finish.[39] A quadriceps injury sidelined him for the final regular-season game in Week 17, contributing to broader concerns about his diminishing role in the aging offense.[40] The Falcons released Jackson on February 26, 2015, citing the need for younger talent after two seasons totaling 1,250 rushing yards.[41]New England Patriots and retirement (2015)
On December 21, 2015, Steven Jackson signed with the New England Patriots as a free agent to provide depth at running back amid injuries to key players like LeGarrette Blount and Dion Lewis.[42] He served primarily as a backup in the Patriots' high-powered, Super Bowl-contending offense, which featured quarterback Tom Brady and was defending its 2014 championship.[43] Jackson appeared in the final two regular-season games of 2015, rushing for 50 yards on 21 carries with one touchdown, including a 1-yard score against the Miami Dolphins in Week 17.[44] He also participated in two playoff games, contributing 24 rushing yards on 10 carries and another touchdown in the AFC Championship Game loss to the Denver Broncos.[44] Overall, in four games with New England, Jackson totaled 74 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries, averaging 2.4 yards per attempt.[45] Following the 2015 season, Jackson did not play in the NFL again, effectively retiring from professional football.[1] In July 2019, he signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the Los Angeles Rams—his original team—to formally retire as a member of the franchise, honoring his status as the organization's all-time leading rusher.[46]Career statistics and records
NFL regular season and postseason stats
Steven Jackson's NFL career spanned 12 seasons from 2004 to 2015, during which he appeared in 160 games, starting 147, and recorded 11,438 rushing yards on 2,764 attempts (4.1 yards per carry) with 69 rushing touchdowns, alongside 3,683 receiving yards on 461 receptions with 9 receiving touchdowns.[1] He fumbled the ball 23 times, losing 15, and scored 468 total points on 78 touchdowns.[31] The following table summarizes Jackson's regular season statistics by year, including games played (G), rushing (attempts, yards, touchdowns, yards per carry), receiving (receptions, yards, touchdowns), fumbles (Fum), and total points scored (Pts).| Year | Team | G | Rush Att | Rush Yds | Rush TD | YPC | Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | Fum | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | STL | 14 | 134 | 673 | 4 | 5.0 | 19 | 189 | 0 | 1 | 26 |
| 2005 | STL | 15 | 254 | 1,046 | 8 | 4.1 | 43 | 320 | 2 | 3 | 60 |
| 2006 | STL | 16 | 346 | 1,528 | 13 | 4.4 | 90 | 806 | 3 | 4 | 96 |
| 2007 | STL | 12 | 237 | 1,002 | 5 | 4.2 | 38 | 271 | 1 | 5 | 36 |
| 2008 | STL | 12 | 253 | 1,042 | 7 | 4.1 | 40 | 379 | 1 | 5 | 48 |
| 2009 | STL | 15 | 324 | 1,416 | 4 | 4.4 | 51 | 322 | 0 | 2 | 24 |
| 2010 | STL | 16 | 330 | 1,241 | 6 | 3.8 | 46 | 383 | 0 | 1 | 36 |
| 2011 | STL | 15 | 260 | 1,145 | 5 | 4.4 | 42 | 333 | 1 | 2 | 36 |
| 2012 | STL | 16 | 258 | 1,045 | 4 | 4.1 | 38 | 321 | 0 | 0 | 26 |
| 2013 | ATL | 12 | 157 | 543 | 6 | 3.5 | 33 | 191 | 1 | 0 | 42 |
| 2014 | ATL | 15 | 190 | 707 | 6 | 3.7 | 20 | 148 | 0 | 0 | 36 |
| 2015 | NWE | 2 | 21 | 50 | 1 | 2.4 | 1 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Career | - | 160 | 2,764 | 11,438 | 69 | 4.1 | 461 | 3,683 | 9 | 23 | 468 |
| Year | Team | G | Rush Att | Rush Yds | Rush TD | YPC | Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | STL | 2 | 19 | 68 | 0 | 3.6 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| 2015 | NWE | 2 | 10 | 24 | 1 | 2.4 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 |
| Career | - | 4 | 29 | 92 | 1 | 3.2 | 4 | 5 | 0 | 6 |