UH’s William Jackson III sees his dreams as a top pick about to come true.
Lunch is served, and a plate of pork chops marsala and mashed potatoes is waiting for University of Houston cornerback William Jackson III.
His cellphone keeps ringing, though. It’s a series of NFL teams checking in, saying hello and making sure each has his correct number for its files.
It’s a reminder that this meal is an appetizer of sorts for the main course: the NFL draft that launches Thursday night when Jackson is expected to be drafted in the first round as the projected top senior cornerback.
“My dream is finally going to come true,” Jackson said. “I’ve worked hard to get to this point, so it will be a blessing for me to get drafted. I’m hearing good things.
“I’m getting good vibes from all the teams. I’m not a big, bragging type of guy, but they can watch film and see I bring a lot to the table. I can play a little bit.”
NFL teams agree with that self-assessment from the Wheatley product. Hit at combine
Jackson (6-0, 190) emerged as a hot commodity in this draft when he validated his speed with a 4.37 time in the 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine in February. That backed up what general managers, coaches and scouts saw from Jackson in games, where his ballhawking presence and instincts allowed him to intercept five passes last season and lead the nation with 28 passes defended for eighth-ranked UH.
Jackson has drawn high marks for his football skills and character.
“It’s a good thing God blessed me to be tall and fast,” Jackson said. “That should be a plus in their eyes.”
Jackson was a skinny, energetic child who loved to ride horses and go on trail rides with his grandmother, Judy Johnson.
Smiling throughout the meal and wearing a custom red T-shirt with “I Will” stenciled across the front, Johnson can’t wait to find out where her grandson is going. One lifelong fan
“I’m his grandmother, his second mother, and I’ve been following him ever since he started playing football and through college,” Johnson said. “I will be following him out there in the NFL. I’m a very proud grandparent.”
Where Jackson might land is undetermined. The Dolphins hold the 13th pick and are a popular link to him in several mock drafts. The Steelers, at 25, have shown interest as well. Jackson plans to spend the draft with family and friends, including his father, William Jackson Jr., his grandmother and his agent, Kennard McGuire.
“We’re going to be here, taking it all in to celebrate,” Jackson said. “I’m excited. I don’t really get nervous at all. It’s out of my hands now. I did all I can do. I just sit back and wait on the call.”