The national media seems to be awakening more and more each day to the large and upcoming realization that is the Iowa Hawkeyes linebackers. This time it is junior linebacker Jestin Jacobs getting some love from the media outlets.
The junior from Englewood, Ohio, was the Hawkeyes’ fifth-leading tackler last year with 53 tackles in 2021. Not only does Jacobs play stout run defense, but his ability in the passing game is just as good. Per Pro Football Focus, Jacobs only allowed one touchdown in pass coverage in 2021.
Versatile.@jestinjacobs__ 🔒⬇️#Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/tqCu8yLHyp
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) May 23, 2022
This statistic speaks to one of the strengths that Jacobs brings to the table. His athleticism and speed within the sideline-to-sideline play has caught the eye of NFL scouts and should only continue to gain more traction with the upcoming season.
With the modern-era of football making running backs viable pass catchers, linebackers have to be able to run in space and make plays in pass coverage. Jacobs’ ability to do this should prove to be a huge asset for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Jestin Jacobs is paired with Jack Campbell, his linebacking partner that has collected a handful of PFF recognition as the best run stopper in the Power Five along with being a 2023 NFL draft riser.
Also alongside Jacobs is the third part of the linebacker crew, Seth Benson. While a little bit more under the radar and less discussed, Benson is a vital piece of Iowa defensive coordinator Phil Parker’s defense and trailed only Campbell in tackles. Benson had 105 tackles in the 2021 season.
This recognition joins an ever-growing list of leaderboards we are seeing Hawkeyes appear on. This might be one of the first times we see Jacobs’ name getting national news, but it can be expected that it will not be the last time.
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