Cleveland Browns’ 10 best players since returning to the NFL in 1999
By Ryan Rosko
4. D’Qwell Jackson
Had it not been for injuries, Jackson’s statistical impact on the Browns would have been that much more influential. An intimidating and no-nonsense leader was needed on the defensive side of the ball and that is exactly what Jackson gave Cleveland, thus increasing his popularity in NE Ohio.
Jackson had a similar career in Cleveland to that of Derrick Johnson with the Kansas City Chiefs and Bart Scott with the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets, among others per player reference.
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Jackson never received the national appreciation and recognition that he received in Ohio despite being a key defensive player for years. If Jackson had left (God forbid) Cleveland during his prime, maybe that recognition would be different around the country.
Whether he was cleaning up a play, making a play for himself, or putting himself in a position for others to make a play, one thing was always for sure: Jackson was around the football on a regular basis.
Cleveland selected Jackson in the second round, 34th overall in 2006 out of the University of Maryland. As an inside linebacker for the Browns over seven seasons, Jackson was always someone opposing offensive coordinators had to game plan against and keep an eye on.
While in Cleveland, Jackson accumulated nine interceptions, 43 pass deflections, seven forced fumbles, 13 fumble recoveries, 19.5 sacks, and 767 tackles. Before his playing days were over, Jackson played three seasons for the Colts.