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In the wild world of recruiting, one's measurables are always being read as a way to critique a player. Sometimes, people get a little too overboard with these things and neglect to see what players can do, regardless of their height and weight. On Monday, September 8, Eastern Michigan was able to receive a commitment from 2-star defensive back Obbie Jackson.
Bringing the #NoFlyZone to Eastern Michigan University. Proud to be an Eagle! @EMUFB
— Diddy (@OhThatsObbie) September 9, 2014
Not the tallest, but 5-foot-10 is a manageable height for defensive backs. It also helps to run a 4.49 in the 40-yard dash, which makes speed a big part of Obbie Jackson's game.
"[My strong suits are] my speed and I'm also a physical corner," Jackson told Hustle Belt. "Physical as in: jamming the receivers and read blocking. I don't necessarily play the way I look."
Sifting through EMU's roster, there's a few notable players that won't be playing next year like Pudge Cotton, Darius Scott and Willie Creaar. Without them around next year, Jackson sees the opportunity for early playing time as a freshman. "They have three DBs graduating, so that played a big part in committing, so I could possibly come in and get a little bit of playing time," Jackson added.
The three main recruiting sites tab Jackson as a 2-star prospect. He also had other offers from Toledo, Austin Peay, Southern Illinois and a pair of Division-II schools. Other MAC schools like Central Michigan, Western Michigan and Bowling Green were also interested in him. Jackson said that he was also receiving interests from Michigan State.
"I'm really excited to go there and be an Eagle. I'm really excited to play on that turf, actually. And to wear that Eastern Michigan uniform: that's a big thing for me."
Here is Jackson's highlight tape from his junior season, courtesy of Hudl: