Cincinnati Bengals select McKinnley Jackson in 3rd round of 2024 NFL Draft

Texas A&M’s McKinnley Jackson was selected with the 97th overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft Friday night. 

Jackson was a staple on the defensive line over the last two years, serving as a season-long team captain in each of his final two seasons in Aggieland. In 2023 he started all 12 regular season games, finishing the year with 27 tackles, 5.5 for loss, and 3.0 sacks. 

The Lucedale, Miss. native helped the Aggies lead the SEC in rushing defense while also boasting top-three season totals in tackles for loss and sacks as a team through the end of the regular season.

“McKinnley is a powerful man on the inside against the run and can be quite disruptive in the interior,” Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko said. “His ability to take on multiple blockers helps the overall defensive scheme.”

Prior to his senior season, Jackson played in 28 games, making 12 starts. He tallied 91 tackles in his career, including 15.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks.  

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