As a Nole he punished QBs. As a pro, Alonzo Jackson looks to be taking the hits.
Drafted in the second round in 2003 by the Steelers, Jackson was apparently never able to make the transition from DE to NFL linebacker. Even after dropping 20 pounds to fit the position.
The Canadian game seemed more suited to his speed and QB chasing chops. But Calgary cut 'Zo (pictured above on the Stampeders practice field) this week after the first of two CFL exhibition games.
Why the quick exit? Kelsey Goldade the Stampeders media contact told us "I don't believe injury played a part. He played well but we have some good competition at that position. I'm not sure if he's talking to any other teams, however I don't believe he has signed anywhere else."
It's a pretty sure bet we'll see Alonzo on a football field again someday. Maybe as a player, perhaps more likely as a coach.
He's a smart young man who loves the game and the Noles. We interviewed him for an upcoming feature on our sister site, Garnet & Great, and he sounds like a guy with real potential for the coaching ranks.
Speaking of coaches. Check out this story on why Steeler coaches look at FSU almost like their own personal farm team. And how Jackson is considered the only recent "bust" in a list of Seminole Steelers including Chris Hope, Bryant McFadden, Willie Reed — not to mention Lawrence Timmons, who looks like a keeper.
Photo Copyright Stampeders/Cory Shannon/2007
Comments? Questions? Kudos?