Skip to main content
Florida

Cam Jackson selected in fifth round of 2025 NFL Draft

On3 imageby: Zach Abolverdi04/26/25ZachAbolverdi
Cam-Jackson-Florida-Gators
Florida defensive lineman Cam Jackson. (Ashley Ray/UAA Photo)

Florida Gators defensive lineman Cam Jackson was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday. The Carolina Panthers picked him No. 140 overall.

Jackson started in 22 games on the defensive line during his time in Gainesville. He made 69 tackles (37 in last year, 32 in 2023), 4.5 TFLs, 1.5 sacks and four pass deflections. 

Jackson spent three seasons with the Memphis Tigers, two as a starter with 41 tackles in 2022, before transferring to Florida for his final two collegiate campaigns.

James played in the Reese’s Senior Bowl and competed in the NFL Scouting Combine.

“He looks good, doesn’t he? I gave him a hard time the other day. I said, ‘Man, now that the money’s at stake’, you know? But, I’m just joking with him,” Napier said Jackson. “Cam made a huge step. I thought he played and used his length this year. The film speaks for itself. Interior player that I think really increased his pass rush value. That’s really where the separator is for the first, second down nose. What third-down value can you bring to a team? So, leaning up is a good thing.

“I thought he got the message. He did that. I thought he looked really good in Indy. He moved well, so I think he’s helped himself. You know, 6-foot-6, 322. That doesn’t fall off the trees. So, somebody is going to get a really good player. Cam’s grown up quite a bit in his journey here, in terms of maturity, being independent, managing his time, learning how to be a professional and have habits that’ll carry over to the next level. So, we’re really proud of him and the growth. His chances are good.”

NFL Combine results

Prospect grade: 6.21
40-yard dash: 5.17 seconds
10-yard dash: 1.81 seconds
Vertical jump: 24.5’’
Broad jump: 7’ 9’’
Measurables: 6’ 6’’, 328 pounds
Arm: 34 1/8’’
Hand: 9 1/2’’

Draft analysis

“Massive nose tackle whose lack of productivity belies his potential to imprint on NFL games as a run defender. Jackson is a complete non-factor as a rusher, so his spot on a draft board will be relative to a team’s willingness to take a two-down player in need of polish. He’s long and plays with extremely heavy hands and an ability to overwhelm single blockers at times. When he’s allowed to swap paint and focus on smaller areas of containment, he’s a tough out. He gets knocked off his spot more than he should, but better block take-on and technique should create better consistency. Jackson has freakish size and is a more enticing prospect when tape flashes are prioritized in the evaluation process.” — Lance Zierlein, NFL.com

Not a member of Gators Online?

CLICK HERE to get three months of Gators Online for $1! It’s the top place for passionate Florida fans to find the best insight and news in the market. 

Boasting a talented collection of experienced journalists, we dig deep into recruiting and provide breaking news and analysis on UF sports.

You may also like