Drake Jackson signs UDFA deal with the Detroit Lions

Drake Jackson has signed with the Detroit Lions.

After going undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Kentucky center signed a free agent deal with the Lions to become the eighth UK player to find a professional home this weekend.

The #Lions are signing former Kentucky C Drake Jackson*, per source.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 1, 2021

Jamin Davis, Kelvin Joseph, Quinton Bohanna, Brandin Echols, Landon Young and Phil Hoskins all heard their names called in the draft, while AJ Rose was the first former Wildcat to sign a deal as an undrafted free agent. Max Duffy and Boogie Watson are both expected to sign free agent contracts this weekend, as well.

Jackson played in 47 career games with 44 consecutive starts at center, helping the Wildcats win 37 total games, the most in a five-season span since 1949-53. He also helped UK go to five straight bowl games – tied for the school record – along with leading the team to 20 SEC victories, the most in a five-year span in school history.

With Jackson at center, Kentucky posted its first 10-win season and winning SEC record since 1977 and first final ranking since 1984 (2018 season), along with taking home Citrus Bowl, Belk Bowl and Gator Bowl victories.

Detroit certainly got a good one.