Alabama safety Eddie Jackson has decided to help the Crimson Tide defend its national title in 2016.
Jackson, a first-team All-SEC selection in 2015, will return for his senior season rather than apply for early NFL draft entry, giving the Crimson Tide another returning starter in a secondary that will lose seniors Cyrus Jones and Geno Matias-Smith. Jackson posted his decision via social media:
The junior led Alabama with six interceptions, including one in the national championship game, and tied for fifth on the team in tackles with 46. He was selected as the Defensive Player of the Game in the Crimson Tide's title-game win over Clemson on Monday.
Jackson transitioned to safety last spring after starting 10 games at cornerback during the 2014 season. He'll return as one of the most highly regarded players at his position in college football next season.
Jackson's reported decision begins what should be a flurry of Alabama underclassmen news, as running back Derrick Henry, tight end O.J. Howard, defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson and defensive end Jonathan Allen have yet to announce whether they will return to Alabama or apply for early draft entry.
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