Getting to Know: Rayshad Jackson
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As the only linebacker in Florida's 2015 recruiting class, Rayshad Jackson is excited to get things started in Gainesville when he enrolls starting the Summer B semester.
Jackson, a two-star linebacker recruit out of Miami Norland High School, was Florida's second commitment of the Jim McElwain era and the first on the defensive side of the ball. New linebackers coach Randy Shannon and Jackson had a pre-established relationship from his time coaching at Arkansas, and that carried over during the final stages of the 2015 recruiting cycle when he was hired in Gainesville.
Inside the Gators caught up with Jackson for the latest segment of our "Getting to Know" series for the incoming 2015 signees.
What led to your decision to attend the University of Florida?
Jackson: What really led to my decision is the education. I saw something where we can bond together and make it as a team. I also saw their linebackers. My competition there, I could also go in and get early playing time. They see me as an outside linebacker. I could drop back in coverage or put my hand in the dirt.
What's your relationship like with Shannon? How did he sell his pitch for you to come play for him?
Jackson: Great attitude. I can ball with him all the time. He's an alumni from the school I'm coming from, so we bonded together right away. A great recruiter - he'll start the conversation off really good. He'll be straightforward with you, and you can take a lot from you.
What would you say is your greatest strength as a football player?
Jackson: My speed. You know how it is in football - speed kills.
What aspects of your game do you hope to polish this summer and during fall camp?
Jackson: My off-coverage skills, my hip mobility, so I can get back to coverage faster and stuff.
Have you decided on a college major yet?
Jackson: No, not yet. I'm undecided.
If you could play any team at home in the Swamp who would it be?
Jackson: Miami. That was one of my dad's favorite teams when I was a kid. When I was a kid, I used to root for Florida and Miami.
Do you have any superstitions or rituals in your personal life for before a game?
Jackson: I'd pray a lot right before games. I'd thank God for another day of my life and for a good time playing football.
What would you say is your worst habit?
Jackson: Waking up on time. I've been waking up late sometimes.
Which NFL team is your favorite?
Jackson: The Pittsburgh Steelers. They had great linebackers over the years. Antonio Brown (a fellow Miami Norland graduate), he's one of my favorite guys up there right now.
If you were to eventually become a first-round NFL draft choice, what is the first thing that you would buy?
Jackson: I'd buy my mom and dad a car. I'd think about a Jaguar S-Type or something like that.
If you could play with any former college athlete, who would it be?
Jackson: Of course Dante Fowler. The way he plays, he brings so much to the game.
Who is your favorite athlete outside of football?
Jackson: In UFC, I like Rampage Jackson. He's a tough guy. When he fights, he comes in like a beast.
What's your favorite genre of music to listen to?
Jackson: I like Meek Mill, I like Fetty Wap.
What is your favorite TV show?
Jackson: "American Horror Story."
What is your favorite movie?
Jackson: "Scary Movie 4."
Do you have a favorite meal?
Jackson: All types of chicken.
Which celebrity you most want to trade places with for one day?
Jackson: Nobody in particular. I'm trying to make it to where they're at, so I wouldn't want to live their lifestyle. I'd want to make it on my own.
If you had your choice of anyone on the planet, whom would you go out with for one dream date?
Jackson: I would say Ariana Grande, because she's very pretty.
Name one thing you can't live without.
Jackson: My people with open arms, my parents.
What is on your bucket list? Name three things you want to do before dying.
Jackson: I want to make a million dollars. I want to my people to be happy, so I want to support them as soon as possible. And I want to support my family.