Justin Jackson drafted in seventh round by Los Angeles Chargers

The most productive running back in Northwestern history —and one of the most productive backs in Big Ten history as well— is headed to the NFL.

It was a long wait, but Jackson eventually got picked late in the seventh round by the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers already have Melvin Gordon as their starter, but Jackson should at least be able to compete for a roster spot.

Jackson was an absolute workhorse at Northwestern. A four-year starter, he logged 5440 career rushing yards on 1142 attempts— both third all-time in the Big Ten. The Carol Stream, Ill. native never missed a game during his time as a Wildcat, and holds the Northwestern record with 41 career rushing touchdowns.

Nicknamed “the Ball Carrier” by Northwestern fans, Jackson went over the 1000-yard mark in each of his four season at Northwestern. He was remarkably consistent, durable, and seemed to make the big play just when the Wildcats needed it over and over again. His performances in the 2016 Pinstripe Bowl (224 yards, three touchdowns) and the 2017 Music City Bowl (157 yards, two touchdowns) fueled back-to-back postseason wins for Northwestern.

Jackson developed into one of Northwestern’s most consistent pass-catchers as an upperclassmen, snagging 35 receptions as a junior and 44 more as a senior.

For Northwestern fans, Saturdays in Evanston won’t be the same without “the Ball Carrier,” but now Wildcat and Chargers’ fans alike will get to see Jackson ball out on Sunday.

Chargers Fans:

For more on Jackson, check out our detailed scouting report here, or our coverage of Justin Jackson week back in October.