Memphis has produced its fair share of SEC talent, and the latest name on that list is White Station’s Antwan “T5” Jackson. After a recruitment that pulled in interest from some of the biggest programs in the country, Jackson announced on July 3 that he’s committing to Ole Miss, choosing the Rebels over Alabama and Missouri. In his own words, the decision came after “a lot of prayer, conversations with my family, and careful thought” (The Rebel Walk). For a four-star prospect who had Alabama trending as the favorite for much of the cycle, that kind of deliberate, faith-centered process speaks to who Jackson is off the field just as much as his tape speaks to who he is on it.
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The Vitals
Jackson checks in at 6’5″, 230 pounds, out of White Station High School in Memphis. He’s rated a four-star EDGE prospect with a 247Sports rating of 90, ranking as the No. 26 EDGE nationally and the No. 15 overall player in the state of Tennessee (247Sports).
A Junior Season That Reads Like a Highlight Reel
Jackson didn’t just line up and rush the passer last season. White Station moved him all over the formation, using him at EDGE, off-ball linebacker, and even tight end (The Rebel Walk).
The production followed him everywhere he lined up:
- 46 tackles
- 13 tackles for loss
- 5.5 sacks
- 3 forced fumbles
- 1 interception
- 11 receptions for 216 yards on offense
That kind of two-way disruption, someone who can set the edge, chase down plays from behind, and still contribute as a pass catcher, is exactly the type of versatility college coaches covet in the modern game.
247Sports director of scouting Andrew Ivins described Jackson as a long, developmental EDGE prospect with elite physical tools, impressive range against the run, and significant upside at the Power Four level (247Sports). It’s a scouting report that points to a player who’s still scratching the surface of what he can become.
Staying Close to Home
Geography played its own quiet role in this recruitment. Oxford sits roughly 90 minutes from Memphis, meaning Jackson doesn’t have to go far to continue his career (SI.com). Beyond Alabama and Missouri, Jackson also drew interest from programs such as Georgia, Texas, Oregon, Texas A&M, LSU, and Tennessee (SI.com), making his decision to stay close to home and within SEC country all the more notable.
Fitting the Vision
Jackson arrives as Ole Miss’ 20th commitment of the 2027 cycle and the headliner among the Rebels’ EDGE group, joining fellow commits Juelz Batiste and Keysan Taylor (The Rebel Walk). His high motor, physical style profiles as a strong fit for defensive line coach Randall Joyner and defensive coordinator Pete Golding’s scheme, one built around relentless effort and disruption up front (Yahoo Sports).
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