Jackson is gaining interest

Back in March, Snellville, Ga., native Zach Jackson took in a junior day at Mississippi State and left Starkville with his first BCS offer. Since that time, the junior defensive back has taken in a couple more visits to BCS programs also showing high interest.

"Things have been going pretty good lately," said the 5-foot-11 and 180-pound Jackson. "I just got back from visiting Virginia. They didn't offer me but they are showing me pretty good interest. I also went to Penn State a couple of weeks ago and they really like me, too.

"Right now I don't have any other trips planned. But I do know Georgia Tech wants me down there soon and then I am going to camps at Mississippi State and Virginia. As far as the summer goes, I haven't done much more planning than those two camps."

Also drawing interest from Georgia and Virginia Tech, Jackson said he still remains in contact with the Bulldogs and is anxious to return for their summer camp sessions.

"That was one of my best visits," said Jackson, who also has an offer from Army. "My dad went with me and we both really liked Mississippi State. It made me feel pretty good leaving there with an offer and that is why I want to go back and see more of their campus this summer."

With so many new schools starting to display interest in Jackson, he noted he was taking a slow approach with his recruitment.

"I still have a lot of time to make my decision and I am in no rush," Jackson said. "My dad told me when it came time to decide to just make sure I make the right choice and make sure I am 100 percent positive about that school.

"First and foremost I want to find a school that is strong academically. Then I want to make sure it has that home feeling and that there is a good chemistry between the players and the coaches. I also want to play for a head coach that is not just my head coach but someone I can depend on."

Early next week, Jackson and his Brookwood High School teammates will return to the gridiron to open up spring drills. And taking on more of a leadership goal is one of Jackson's top priorities.

"We start May 3rd and I am just looking to get better all around on defense," said Jackson, who had 35 tackles with three interceptions last year. "This will be my senior year and it is time to be the captain of the defense and be a great leader. Everyone is recruiting me as a safety and I know I will be at one of those spots again this year. My coach said he feels comfortable with me at free safety and it just depends on whether or not they need me to play there or at strong safety."