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Steven Rashad Jackson (born July 22, 1983) is an American former professional football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 12 seasons, primarily with the St. Louis Rams. He played college football for the Oregon State Beavers, twice receiving third-team All-American and first-team All-Pac-10 honors.

Key Information

Jackson was selected in the first round of the 2004 NFL draft by the Rams, where he spent his first nine seasons. During his St. Louis tenure, he became the franchise's all-time leading rusher, in addition to receiving three Pro Bowl and two second-team All-Pro selections. In his final three seasons, Jackson was a member of the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots. He was the 19th player to rush for 11,000 yards and only the fourth player to rush for 1,000 yards in eight consecutive seasons. His seven seasons with 1,000 rushing yards and 300 receiving yards was 3rd most by a running back.[1][2]

Early life

[edit]

Jackson was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was a running back for Eldorado High School. He was named the Sunrise Regional MVP and rushed for 6,396 yards and 81 touchdowns for the Sundevils. Eldorado lost in the state final his senior year to McQueen High School (Reno, Nevada). He also lettered four years in track and field, recording a 10.6 in the 100 meters as a junior, and was a member of the 4 × 100 m (42.64 s) relay squad.[3]

Jackson's subsequent success has been credited with prompting college football programs to take more interest in players in the Las Vegas area.[4] This success also led to Jackson's induction into the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.[5]

College career

[edit]

Jackson attended Oregon State University, where he played for the Beavers for three seasons (2001–2003).[6] In 36 games, he carried 743 times for 3,625 yards for a 4.9-yard average and 39 touchdowns while adding 680 yards and six touchdowns on 66 catches and 240 yards with a touchdown on seven kickoff returns. His 4,545 all-purpose yards rank second in school history, while he ranks third on the school's all-time scoring list with 276 points. In his sophomore season, Jackson led the Pac-10 Conference in rushing and finished the season eighth nationally with 1,690 yards; an average of 130 yards per game.[7] As a junior, he ranked tenth in the nation in rushing, ninth in all-purpose yardage, and fourth in scoring; he carried the ball 350 times for 1,545 yards and 19 touchdowns, adding 44 receptions for 470 yards and three touchdowns.[8] When his collegiate career ended, Jackson's 2,015 all-purpose yards set an Oregon State school record.[9]

College statistics

[edit]
Season Team Conf Class Pos GP Rushing Receiving
Att Yds Avg TD Rec Yds Avg TD
2001 Oregon State Pac-10 FR RB 11 74 390 5.3 5 5 45 9.0 1
2002 Oregon State Pac-10 SO RB 13 319 1,690 5.3 15 17 165 9.7 2
2003 Oregon State Pac-10 JR RB 13 350 1,545 4.4 19 44 470 10.7 3
Career 37 743 3,625 4.9 39 66 680 10.3 6

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

[edit]
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press Wonderlic
6 ft 1+1⁄2 in
(1.87 m)		 241 lb
(109 kg)		 32+1⁄2 in
(0.83 m)		 9+5⁄8 in
(0.24 m)		 4.55 s 1.57 s 2.61 s 4.09 s 7.03 s 37.5 in
(0.95 m)		 9 ft 10 in
(3.00 m)		 16 reps 28
All values from Oregon State Pro Day,[10][11] except for Wonderlic score.

Jackson was overlooked by several teams in 2004, most likely due to a knee injury suffered during his last year at Oregon State that kept him from participating in drills at the 2004 NFL Combine. Jackson had surgery on the knee after the college season, but required additional surgery after his rookie year to ensure its complete rehabilitation. In an interview with CBS Sports' Pete Prisco on how the knee injury had affected his play, Jackson said, "I never felt right. Now it does."[12]

St. Louis Rams

[edit]
Drafted by the Rams in 2004, Jackson spent nine years with the team

Jackson was selected in the first round with the 24th overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft by the St. Louis Rams. He was the first running back to be selected that year. The Rams traded picks with the Denver Broncos and Cincinnati Bengals to get Jackson. Denver traded Deltha O'Neal to Cincinnati for their first round pick. Then, St. Louis traded up to Cincinnati's selection to grab Jackson while the Bengals chose Chris Perry to replace the departed Corey Dillon, who was traded to the New England Patriots.[13][14]

2004 season

[edit]

On July 30, 2004, Jackson signed a five-year, $18.73 million deal with the Rams, which included a $2.5 million signing bonus. In his 2004 rookie season, he was a backup under Marshall Faulk.[15] He made his NFL debut in the season opener against the Arizona Cardinals and had seven carries for 50 yards in the 17–10 victory.[16] He scored his first professional touchdown on a two-yard rush against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 4.[17] He saw an increased role toward the end of the season. In Week 13 against the 49ers, he had 26 carries for 119 yards for his first 100+-yard game.[18] In Week 16, against the Philadelphia Eagles, he had his best performance of the season with 24 carries for 148 yards and a touchdown.[19] As a rookie, he rushed 134 times for 673 rushing yards and four touchdowns, and had 19 receptions for 189 yards.[20]

During the 2004 playoffs, Jackson played in both Rams postseason games; he logged 36 rushing yards and a reception in the Wild Card win over Seattle, and added 37 total yards in the Divisional Round loss to Atlanta, marking his first NFL postseason appearances.

2005 season

[edit]

With Faulk aging, Jackson was named the Rams' starting running back for the 2005 season.[21] In Week 4, against the New York Giants, he had his first receiving touchdown on a 13-yard pass from Marc Bulger.[22] In Week 7, against the New Orleans Saints, he had his first multi-touchdown game with two rushing in the 28–17 victory.[23] In Week 8, against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he had 25 carries for 179 rushing yards to go with two receptions for 21 yards and receiving touchdown.[24] Jackson had 1,046 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns on 254 attempts, and caught 43 passes for 320 yards and two receiving touchdowns.[25]

2006 season

[edit]

After the dismissal of head coach Mike Martz and the departure of Faulk, 2006 became Jackson's breakout season.[26][27] With Scott Linehan as the new head coach, the Rams had a more balanced offensive attack.[28] He started the season off strong with 121 rushing yards in an 18–10 victory over the Denver Broncos.[29] After rushing for 103 yards in Week 2 against the San Francisco 49ers, Jackson did not top 100 rushing yards until later in the season.[30] However, there was a four-game stretch where he scored a rushing touchdown in each game from Week 6 to Week 10. In the second divisional game against the 49ers in Week 12, he had 121 rushing yards, one rushing touchdown, nine receptions, and 71 receiving yards.[31] He had 127 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns against the Oakland Raiders in Week 15.[32] He had 150 rushing yards, one rushing touchdown, six receptions, 102 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown against the Washington Redskins in Week 16.[33] He was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for Week 16.[34] He closed the year with 142 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 17.[35] For his productive end to the season, he was named NFC Offensive Player of the Month for December.[36] Overall, Jackson ran 346 times for 1,528 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns and led all running backs when he caught 90 passes for 806 yards, and adding three receiving touchdowns.[37] He led the NFL in total yards from scrimmage with 2,334. For his efforts, Jackson was named to his first Pro Bowl and received one vote for the 2006 NFL Offensive Player of the Year award.[38][39]

2007 season

[edit]
Jackson rushing against the 49ers in 2007

Jackson started the 2007 season with 58 rushing yards in a 27–17 loss to the Carolina Panthers.[40] In Week 3, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he had 30 carries for 115 rushing yards.[41] In Week 15, against the Green Bay Packers, he had a season-high 143 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown.[42] During the Rams' dismal 2007 season, Jackson lashed out at fans and expressed distaste with the music played in the Edward Jones Dome.[43] Overall, he finished the 2007 season with 1,002 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns, 38 receptions, 271 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.[44]

2008 season

[edit]

After the season, with one year left on his rookie contract, Jackson believed he was underpaid and held out of training camp. On August 21, 2008, Jackson officially ended his holdout by signing a six-year contract worth a maximum of $49.3 million, including a $11.4 million signing bonus and $21 million guaranteed.[45] Because the final two years of the deal (2012 and 2013) can be voided based on Jackson's performance, it could become a three-year extension worth $29.3 million instead. Either way, signing the contract made him the highest-paid running back in the NFL.[46] In Week 7, against the Dallas Cowboys, he had 25 carries for 160 yards and three rushing touchdowns.[47] His performance against the Cowboys gave him his second NFC Offensive Player of the Week award.[48] He closed out the season with 161 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns against the Atlanta Falcons.[49] Overall, he finished the 2008 season with 253 carries for 1,042 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns to go with 40 receptions for 379 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown.[50]

2009 season

[edit]

After recording 67 rushing yards in a 28–0 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the season opener, Jackson had 104 rushing yards against the Washington Redskins in a 9–7 loss and 117 rushing yards against the Green Bay Packers in a 36–17 loss.[51][52][53] In Week 7, against the Indianapolis Colts, he started a four-game stretch with over 100 rushing yards in each game with a rushing touchdown in the latter three against the Detroit Lions, New Orleans Saints, and the Arizona Cardinals.[54][55][56][57] Overall, he finished the season with 1,416 rushing yards, four rushing touchdowns, 51 receptions, and 322 receiving yards.[58] He was named to his second Pro Bowl.[59]

2010 season

[edit]

Jackson started the 2010 season with 81 rushing yards in a 17–13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.[60] He rushed for over 100 in three consecutive games against the Detroit Lions, San Diego Chargers, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.[61][62] Jackson surpassed Eric Dickerson as the Rams' all-time leading rusher, with a 110-yard effort against the Buccaneers game.[63] On November 21, 2010, he recorded his 10,000th career yard from scrimmage on a first quarter run against the Atlanta Falcons. Jackson rushed for 1,145 yards during the 2011 regular season, marking the seventh consecutive season he has surpassed 1,000 yards.[64] He earned his third Pro Bowl nomination for the 2010 season.[65] He was ranked 38th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2011.[66]

2011 season

[edit]

Jackson started the 2011 season with two carries for 56 yards and a rushing touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.[67] In Week 8, against the New Orleans Saints, he had 25 carries for 159 yards and two touchdowns.[68] He followed that up with 130 rushing yards against the Arizona Cardinals and 128 rushing yards against the Cleveland Browns.[69][70] Overall, Jackson recorded 1,145 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns, 42 receptions, 333 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.[71] He was ranked 37th by this fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2012.[72]

2012 season

[edit]

The 2012 draft saw the Rams select two running backs, Daryl Richardson and Isaiah Pead, indicating a potential future running back by committee scenario.[73] With the retirement of LaDainian Tomlinson, Jackson became the NFL's active leader in career rushing yards, where he remained for over three years until passed by Frank Gore in October 2015. In Week 12, against the Arizona Cardinals, he had a season-high 139 rushing yards.[74] In Week 15, Jackson became the 27th running back in NFL history to rush for over 10,000 yards, and the sixth running back in league history to compile eight consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons.[75] Jackson ended the 2012 season with 1,042 yards rushing and four touchdowns.[76] At the conclusion of the season, Jackson chose to opt-out of the final year of his contract, to pursue a starting job on a contender.[77]

Atlanta Falcons

[edit]
Jackson in 2013 with the Falcons

On March 14, 2013, Jackson signed a three-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons.[78] Jackson failed to rush for 1,000 yards for the first time since his rookie season in 2004, finishing the 2013 season with 543 rushing yards on 157 attempts. He had two games on the season with two rushing touchdowns, against the Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins.[79] In the 2014 season, Jackson's rushing numbers improved with 707 rushing yards in 15 games.[80] Jackson was released by the Falcons on February 26, 2015.[81]

New England Patriots

[edit]

On December 21, 2015, Jackson signed with the New England Patriots.[82] He scored his first touchdown of the season in the Patriots' 20–10 loss to the Miami Dolphins on January 3.[83] He scored his first career playoff touchdown in the AFC Championship 20–18 loss to the Denver Broncos.[84] The loss to the Broncos ended up being Jackson's final professional game.[85]

Retirement and legacy

[edit]

On July 29, 2019, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the by-then Los Angeles Rams to officially retire as a member of the team.[86]

He is considered one of the greatest running backs during the NFL's "golden age" for the position in the 2000s, but whose career was stunted because he played for lackluster teams.[87] The Rams never recorded a winning record during his tenure, only making the playoffs when he was a rookie at 8–8, and he played for six head coaches.[88][89] Jacob Robinson of The Athletic wrote Jackson would have been in the Pro Football Hall of Fame had that era's Rams not "wasted his prime",[88] while Sports Illustrated's Brock Vierra opined he "would be in the conversation for greatest running back of all time" had his career taken place later under the Rams' Super Bowl-winning coach Sean McVay.[90] Jackson echoed similar sentiment in 2018, opining he could continue running for 1,000 yards annually with McVay.[89] Eligible for the Hall of Fame since 2021, Jackson said in 2024 he would be appreciative about making it but "I don't really think much about it" otherwise.[91]

Discussing his legacy in 2018, Jackson commented:[89]

"Everyone doesn't get the wins. Some guy's going to be lucky this year, be a rookie to win the Super Bowl. And you have somebody like myself that plays 12 years and doesn't get a chance."

Jackson was inducted into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame in 2024.[92]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Year Team Games Rushing Receiving
GP GS Att Yds Avg Lng TD Rec Yds Avg Lng TD
2004 STL 14 3 134 673 5.0 48 4 19 189 9.9 28 0
2005 STL 15 15 254 1,046 4.1 51 8 43 320 7.4 27 2
2006 STL 16 16 346 1,528 4.4 59 13 90 806 9.0 64T 3
2007 STL 12 12 237 1,002 4.2 54 5 38 271 7.1 37 1
2008 STL 12 11 253 1,042 4.1 56 7 40 379 9.5 53 1
2009 STL 15 15 324 1,416 4.4 58 4 51 322 6.3 38 0
2010 STL 16 16 330 1,241 3.8 42 6 46 383 8.3 49 0
2011 STL 15 15 260 1,145 4.4 47 5 42 333 7.9 50 1
2012 STL 16 16 258 1,045 4.1 46 4 38 321 8.4 22 0
2013 ATL 12 12 157 543 3.5 50 6 33 191 5.8 25 1
2014 ATL 15 15 190 707 3.7 55 6 20 148 7.4 17 0
2015 NE 2 1 21 50 2.4 7 1 1 20 20.0 20 0
Total 160 147 2,764 11,438 4.1 59 69 461 3,683 8.0 64 9

Rams franchise records

[edit]
  • Most career rushing yards (10,138)[93]
  • Only Rams player to record 150 rushing yards and 100 receiving yards in same game (December 24, 2006, against the Washington Redskins)[94]

NFL records

[edit]
  • Most consecutive seasons with 4+ rushing touchdowns (11) – tied with Emmitt Smith[citation needed]
  • Most consecutive seasons with a 40+ yard run (11)[citation needed]
  • Most rushing attempts by a player without a 60+ yard run (2,764)[citation needed]
  • Most consecutive touches without a fumble (unofficial) – (870) from November 13, 2011, through end of career[citation needed]
  • Only player with 1,500 yards rushing and 800 yards receiving in a single season (2006)[citation needed]

Personal life

[edit]

Jackson wore the #39 for the number of books in the Old Testament.[95]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Steven Jackson

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Steven Rashad Jackson (born July 22, 1983) is an American former professional football who played twelve seasons in the (), most notably with the , for whom he set the franchise record for career rushing yards with 10,138. A three-time selection and two-time second-team , Jackson amassed 11,438 career rushing yards (19th all-time as of 2025) and 69 rushing touchdowns over 160 games, while also contributing 3,683 receiving yards, establishing himself as one of the league's premier dual-threat backs during the and . Born and raised in , , Jackson attended Eldorado High School, where he rushed for 6,396 yards and 81 touchdowns, leading his team to the state final in 2000. Jackson's college career at from 2001 to 2003 was marked by exceptional production, including a school-record 1,690 rushing yards as a in 2002, when he earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors and third-team All-American recognition; over three seasons, he totaled 3,625 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns, leading the conference in multiple categories each year. Selected 24th overall by the in the first round of the , he quickly emerged as a workhorse back, achieving eight consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons from 2005 to 2012 despite the team's frequent losing records, including a franchise-worst 2-14 mark in 2009. His tenure with the included standout performances like a career-high 2,334 scrimmage yards in 2006, and he remains one of only six running backs in history with at least eight straight 1,000-yard seasons. After signing with the in 2013, Jackson added 1,250 rushing yards over two seasons before a brief stint with the in 2015, from which he retired later that year. Post-retirement, Jackson has pursued , ventures, and media work, founding the Steven Jackson Foundation in 2004 to support literacy, after-school programs, and initiatives; he also established the Jackson Family Fund at Oregon State in 2022 to aid underrepresented faculty and staff. Completing his bachelor's degree in human development and family sciences from Oregon State in 2020 after returning to finish his , he serves on the university's Foundation Board of Trustees and Board while co-founding the OBS and the Original Barber School in . As an analyst for , , and Fox News, Jackson discusses sports, , and social issues, and in 2025, he began working as a credentialed at NFL games; he was inducted into the Oregon State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023.

Early years

Family background and childhood

Steven Rashad Jackson was born on July 22, 1983, in , , to parents and Brenda Jackson. His father, a Marine Corps veteran of the , worked as a pit boss at , providing a stable environment in the midst of the city's vibrant yet potentially distracting surroundings. Jackson grew up in a close-knit with two older sisters, Rhonda and Yolanda, in , where his parents emphasized discipline and guidance to shield him from the temptations of "." This upbringing instilled values of hard work and focus, as his navigated the challenges of raising children in a high-stakes hub while prioritizing and positive activities. From an early age, Jackson developed a passion for football through family bonding, frequently watching games alongside his father and idolizing running back for his graceful style and toughness. This exposure, rooted in his father's military background and shared enthusiasm for the sport, shaped his early character and laid the groundwork for his athletic pursuits, even as he explored other childhood interests like video games and outdoor play common to Las Vegas youth.

High school career

Steven Jackson attended Eldorado High School in , , where he emerged as a dominant during his high school career. Over four years with the Sundevils, he amassed 6,396 rushing yards and 81 touchdowns, setting school records and establishing himself as one of the top prospects in the nation. In his junior and senior seasons, Jackson rushed for over 1,000 yards each year, showcasing his power and speed as a 6-foot-1, 210-pound back. His senior year in 2000 was particularly standout, as he carried the ball 386 times for 2,764 yards and 34 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-State honors from the Las Vegas Sun and Sunrise Regional MVP recognition. These performances helped lead Eldorado to the Nevada state championship game, though they fell short against McQueen High School. His combination of size, vision, and productivity drew widespread attention from college recruiters, with Oregon State ultimately securing his commitment as a highly touted four-star prospect. This recruitment process highlighted his potential as a workhorse back capable of handling heavy workloads, influenced in part by his family's encouragement to use football as a means to overcome early life challenges.

College career

Oregon State Beavers

Steven Jackson enrolled at Oregon State University in the summer of 2001, joining the Beavers football program shortly after its landmark 2000 season that culminated in a dominant 41–9 victory over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl, a success that elevated the team's national profile and attracted top recruits like Jackson. As a true freshman in 2001, he served primarily as a backup running back, appearing in 11 games and gaining valuable experience behind established starters while adapting to the Pac-10's competitive demands. Jackson's development accelerated in his year of 2002, when he emerged as the Beavers' lead and a cornerstone of the offense, rushing for 1,690 yards and 15 touchdowns over 13 games to help Oregon State achieve an 8–5 record and secure a spot in the Insight Bowl. His explosive performances, including standout games against (239 yards) and Fresno State (227 yards), powered the team's contention within the Pac-10 Conference, where he earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors and third-team All-American recognition, solidifying his role as a versatile, workhorse back capable of both rushing and receiving contributions. Academically, Jackson pursued studies at Oregon State, balancing the rigors of a major program with coursework, though he left after his junior year in 2003 to enter the NFL Draft; he later returned to complete his in human development and family sciences in 2020, fulfilling a personal promise to his mother. Off the field, he exhibited leadership qualities by mentoring younger teammates and engaging in community initiatives, drawing on his experiences as a high-profile to foster team unity during Oregon State's transitional years under coach . In , Jackson's junior season saw him rush for 1,545 yards and a Pac-10-leading 19 touchdowns, further anchoring the Beavers' 8–5 campaign and appearance, despite a midseason ankle injury. He recovered effectively, returning to full strength and demonstrating resilience that defined his rapid rise from contributor to NFL prospect, while helping maintain Oregon State's relevance in Pac-10 play.

College statistics and achievements

During his three seasons at from 2001 to 2003, Steven Jackson established himself as one of the Pac-10 Conference's premier , earning first-team All-Pac-10 honors in both 2002 and 2003. In 2003, he was named a semifinalist for the , recognizing the nation's top . Additionally, Jackson received third-team All-American recognition from the in 2002 and third-team All-American honors from the along with honorable mention All-American honors from College Football News and in 2003. Jackson's statistical output demonstrated his versatility as a rusher and receiver. The following table summarizes his year-by-year performance:
SeasonGamesRushing Att./Yds./Avg./TDReceiving Rec./Yds./Avg./TDTotal Yds./TD
2001 ()1174/390/5.3/55/45/9.0/1435/6
2002 (Sophomore)13319/1,690/5.3/1517/165/9.7/21,855/17
2003 (Junior)13350/1,545/4.4/1944/470/10.7/32,015/22
Career37743/3,625/4.9/3966/680/10.3/64,305/45
In bowl games, Jackson showcased his scoring ability, particularly in the 2003 Las Vegas Bowl against New Mexico, where he rushed for 149 yards and four on 28 carries while adding 51 receiving yards and one receiving for five total scores, tying a bowl record. Earlier, in the 2002 Insight Bowl against , he managed 34 rushing yards on 19 attempts but was limited by a strong defense. Over his career, Jackson amassed 3,625 rushing yards at an average of 4.9 yards per carry, ranking 4th in Oregon State history for rushing yards and 4th for rushing attempts (as of 2025). His 45 total offensive touchdowns place him 3rd in program history (as of 2025).

Professional career

2004 NFL Draft and rookie season

Jackson was selected by the in the first round, 24th overall, of the , making him the first chosen that year. The Rams traded up from the 26th pick, acquired from the , to secure him after Jackson's impressive college production at Oregon State boosted his draft stock. At 6 feet 1 inch and 241 pounds, he was viewed as a powerful, versatile back capable of complementing the aging . Prior to the draft, Jackson underwent surgery for a sports hernia, causing him to miss the NFL Scouting Combine. He impressed at Oregon State's pro day, recording a 4.55-second 40-yard dash and 16 repetitions on the 225-pound bench press, metrics that highlighted his speed and strength for a back of his size. In his rookie season, Jackson served primarily as a backup to Hall of Famer , appearing in 14 games with 3 starts while learning the professional game. He rushed for 673 yards on 134 carries with 4 touchdowns, averaging 5.0 yards per attempt, and added 24 receptions for 159 yards, demonstrating his dual-threat potential early on. The finished 8-8 and earned a wild card playoff berth, with Jackson contributing to their postseason push. Jackson made his NFL debut on September 12, 2004, against the , rushing for 50 yards on 7 carries in a 17-10 , though he fumbled once. A notable early highlight came on November 14 against the , where he scored his first home on a 4-yard run during a 33-27 win that helped keep the Rams in playoff contention. Adapting to the NFL's increased physicality proved challenging but manageable, as Jackson credited Faulk's mentorship for helping him adjust to the league's demands and pace.

St. Louis Rams tenure (2005–2012)

Following Marshall Faulk's retirement after the 2005 season, Steven Jackson emerged as the ' primary , taking on a central role in the offense during a period of team rebuilding. His physical running style, combining power and elusiveness, made him the focal point of the ' ground game, often facing stacked defenses amid inconsistent play and offensive line support. Jackson's emergence solidified his status as the franchise's workhorse back, carrying the load for an offense that struggled overall. Jackson achieved peak performance in several seasons, most notably in 2006 when he rushed for 1,528 yards and 13 touchdowns on 346 carries, earning Second-Team All-Pro honors and his first Pro Bowl selection. He replicated his productivity in 2009 with 1,416 rushing yards on 324 carries despite the team's league-worst 1-15 record, again securing Second-Team All-Pro recognition. These standout campaigns highlighted his ability to produce elite numbers even as the Rams posted a 36-91-1 record from 2005 to 2012, underscoring his individual excellence amid collective team challenges. Despite his heavy workload, Jackson demonstrated remarkable durability, appearing in 117 of 128 possible games from 2005 to 2012. He battled recurring injuries, including a partial tear in 2007 that sidelined him for four games, and a thigh strain in 2008 that caused another four absences. Additional setbacks, such as strains in 2011 and various lower-body issues including knee inflammation, tested his resilience, yet he consistently returned to lead the offense. In recognition of his value, Jackson signed a six-year contract extension in August 2008 worth up to $49.3 million, with $21 million guaranteed, following a holdout. This deal affirmed his importance as the ' offensive cornerstone during their lean years, where he often shouldered the majority of the rushing attempts and receiving work out of the backfield.

Atlanta Falcons stint (2013–2014)

Following his release from the in March 2013, where his durability had established him as the franchise's all-time leading rusher, Steven Jackson signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the , including $4 million guaranteed. The deal positioned Jackson as the primary back in an offense led by quarterback Matt Ryan, aiming to balance the passing attack with a stronger ground game under Mike Smith. In the season, Jackson's integration into ' scheme was disrupted by a injury suffered in Week 2 against his former team, causing him to miss the next four games. He returned to play in 12 games, rushing for 543 yards and six s on 157 carries, providing a complementary power element to Ryan's league-leading 4,595 passing yards and helping maintain offensive balance despite the team's 4-12 record. His receiving contributions, with 33 catches for 191 yards and one , added versatility to the run-heavy emphasis Smith sought to implement after the Falcons ranked last in rushing the prior year. Jackson entered the with renewed focus on the ground game but suffered another hamstring strain in late July, though he recovered to play 15 games. His performance showed improvement in volume, with 707 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 190 carries, yet observers noted a decline in explosiveness at age 31, averaging just 3.7 yards per carry amid the ' 6-10 finish. A injury sidelined him for the final regular-season game in Week 17, contributing to broader concerns about his diminishing role in the aging offense. The released Jackson on February 26, 2015, citing the need for younger talent after two seasons totaling 1,250 rushing yards.

New England Patriots and retirement (2015)

On December 21, 2015, Steven Jackson signed with the as a to provide depth at amid injuries to key players like and . He served primarily as a backup in the Patriots' high-powered, Super Bowl-contending offense, which featured quarterback and was defending its 2014 championship. Jackson appeared in the final two regular-season games of 2015, rushing for 50 yards on 21 carries with one , including a 1-yard score against the in Week 17. He also participated in two playoff games, contributing 24 rushing yards on 10 carries and another in the loss to the . Overall, in four games with , Jackson totaled 74 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries, averaging 2.4 yards per attempt. Following the 2015 season, Jackson did not play in the again, effectively retiring from professional football. In July 2019, he signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the —his original team—to formally retire as a member of the franchise, honoring his status as the organization's all-time leading rusher.

Career statistics and records

and postseason stats

Steven Jackson's NFL career spanned 12 seasons from 2004 to 2015, during which he appeared in 160 games, starting 147, and recorded 11,438 rushing yards on 2,764 attempts (4.1 yards per carry) with 69 rushing touchdowns, alongside 3,683 receiving yards on 461 receptions with 9 receiving touchdowns. He fumbled the ball 23 times, losing 15, and scored 468 total points on 78 touchdowns. The following table summarizes Jackson's statistics by year, including (G), rushing (attempts, yards, touchdowns, yards per carry), receiving (receptions, yards, touchdowns), fumbles (Fum), and total points scored (Pts).
YearTeamGRush AttRush YdsRush TDYPCRecRec YdsRec TDFumPts
2004STL1413467345.0191890126
2005STL152541,04684.1433202360
2006STL163461,528134.4908063496
2007STL122371,00254.2382711536
2008STL122531,04274.1403791548
2009STL153241,41644.4513220224
2010STL163301,24163.8463830136
2011STL152601,14554.4423331236
2012STL162581,04544.1383210026
2013ATL1215754363.5331911042
2014ATL1519070763.7201480036
2015NWE2215012.4120006
Career-1602,76411,438694.14613,683923468
Data compiled from Pro-Football-Reference.com. Jackson had limited postseason opportunities, appearing in four games across two seasons (2004 with the and 2015 with the ), where he rushed for 92 yards on 29 attempts (3.2 yards per carry) with 1 and caught 4 passes for 5 yards. His postseason scoring totaled 6 points from 1 . The following table details his postseason statistics by year.
YearTeamGRush AttRush YdsRush TDYPCRecRec YdsRec TDPts
2004STL2196803.63300
2015NWE2102412.41206
Career-4299213.24506
Data compiled from Pro-Football-Reference.com.

St. Louis Rams franchise records

Steven Jackson established himself as one of the most productive running backs in history during his tenure from 2004 to 2012, setting multiple franchise records that underscore his consistency and workload despite playing on teams that struggled offensively. He holds the Rams' all-time record for career rushing yards with 10,138, eclipsing the previous benchmark of 7,971 set by over five seasons from 1983 to 1987. This total came from eight consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons, a feat that highlighted Jackson's durability amid frequent injuries to his offensive line and limited supporting cast. Jackson also leads the franchise in career rushing attempts with 2,396, reflecting his role as the workhorse back who carried the load in an era of rebuilding and poor team performance, often facing stacked defenses. Complementing these marks, he appeared in 131 games for the , the most by any player in franchise history, demonstrating remarkable longevity through 2,803 total touches (rushing and receiving combined). His overall career statistics with the contributed significantly to these totals, including 407 receptions for 3,121 yards. In addition to yardage and volume records, Jackson ranks second in franchise rushing touchdowns with 56, behind and (58 each); had 55. He also holds the team record for total yards from scrimmage with 13,259 (rushing plus receiving). Furthermore, his 34 games of 100 or more rushing yards stand as the franchise high, achieved across his nine seasons in , far exceeding Dickerson's 29 such performances during his Rams tenure. As of 2025, Jackson's records for career rushing yards, attempts, and 100-yard games remain unbroken, solidifying his legacy as the ' greatest rusher even as the franchise has relocated back to and featured subsequent star backs like Gurley and . These marks, accumulated in an offense that never exceeded eight wins in any of his seasons, emphasize his individual impact on a struggling unit.

NFL historical records and milestones

Steven Jackson became the NFL's active leader in career rushing yards following LaDainian Tomlinson's retirement in March 2012, a distinction he held for over three years with his accumulated totals surpassing those of other active players at the time. By the end of the 2014 season, Jackson had amassed 11,438 rushing yards, ranking him 21st on the league's all-time list. As of 2025, his career total ranks 19th all-time. This leadership role underscored his durability and consistency as one of the premier rushers of his era, particularly during a period when he continued to post productive seasons despite playing on non-contending teams. Among Jackson's notable milestones, he joined the 10,000-yard rushing club on December 16, 2012, becoming the 28th player in history to achieve the feat during a game against the Minnesota Vikings. Additionally, Jackson reached 5,000 career rushing yards during the season at the age of 24, establishing him as one of the youngest players to accomplish this benchmark. These accomplishments highlighted his rapid ascent and sustained excellence in accumulating yardage under challenging circumstances. Jackson's consistency was further evidenced by eight consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons from 2005 to 2012, a streak that demonstrated his reliability as a workhorse back. His performance earned him league-wide recognition, including two Second-Team selections in 2006 and 2009, as well as three appearances in 2006, 2009, and 2010. These honors reflected his impact beyond team statistics, positioning him among the elite running backs of the .

Honors and post-retirement

Professional awards and recognitions

Throughout his NFL career, Steven Jackson earned several individual accolades, primarily during his tenure with the St. Louis Rams, recognizing his consistent productivity as a despite the team's overall struggles. He was selected to the three times, in 2006, 2009, and 2010, honors that highlighted his status as one of the league's top rushers in those seasons. Additionally, Jackson received Second-Team All-Pro recognition twice, in 2006 and 2009, based on his league-leading total yards from scrimmage in 2006 (2,334 yards) and strong dual-threat performances thereafter. Jackson also garnered weekly honors for standout games, earning NFC Offensive Player of the Week twice. In Week 16 of the 2006 season, he rushed for 141 yards and two touchdowns while adding 64 receiving yards and another score in a win over the Minnesota Vikings. Similarly, in Week 7 of 2008, he exploded for 160 rushing yards and three touchdowns against the , powering the to a rare victory. On the team level, Jackson was voted the recipient of the St. Louis Rams' Daniel F. Reeves Memorial Award, given to the by teammates and coaches, in both and 2010. These internal honors underscored his and reliability amid frequent injuries and a franchise that posted losing records every year from to 2012. Despite individual excellence—such as finishing third in rushing yards in (1,528 yards)—Jackson never contended seriously for major league awards like NFL Offensive Player of the Year or MVP, as the Rams' poor team performance limited broader recognition; for instance, he received just one MVP vote in .

Hall of Fame nominations and inductions

Steven Jackson became eligible for induction into the in 2021, five years after his retirement at the end of the . He advanced to semifinalist status on the Modern-Era Player ballot for the Class of 2024, one of 25 candidates narrowed from 173 initial nominees. Jackson was not selected as a finalist that year and did not advance further. For the Class of 2025, Jackson was among 167 Modern-Era nominees announced in September 2024, joining former teammates such as wide receiver , quarterback , and linebacker . He did not reach semifinalist or finalist status and was not inducted, with the class ultimately consisting of , defensive end , tight end , and wide receiver . His continued nomination for the Class of 2026 underscores ongoing consideration of his career achievements. In 2023, Jackson was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame as part of a class that included former coach Mike Riley and basketball player , recognizing his college contributions where he rushed for 3,625 yards and earned All-Pac-10 honors twice. The induction ceremony occurred on November 10, 2023, at . Analysts have highlighted Jackson's Hall of Fame candidacy by emphasizing his durability over 12 seasons—often behind a struggling offensive line—and consistent production, including 11,438 rushing yards that rank 19th all-time and establish him as the ' franchise leader. These factors position him comparably to inducted running backs like , though his lack of postseason success and team context have tempered expectations for enshrinement.

Post-NFL activities and legacy

Following his retirement from the NFL in 2015, with an official one-day contract signing with the St. Louis Rams in 2019, Steven Jackson pursued entrepreneurial ventures, including investments in real estate and the barber industry. In a 2016 reflection on his official website, Jackson noted his strategic investments in various forms of real estate to secure his financial future post-career. He also invested in the Original Barber School in Las Vegas, Nevada, expanding it into a lifestyle brand called OBS, which focuses on apparel and barber-related products. These efforts highlight Jackson's transition into business ownership, leveraging his personal interest in barbering developed during his playing days. Jackson has remained active in media, contributing as a guest analyst for and , where he provided commentary on games and player performances. He has appeared on several podcasts, including the NFL Players: Second Acts podcast in 2025, where he discussed his career and ventures, and , sharing insights on modern football. Additionally, Jackson launched the NFL Legends YouTube channel, hosting interviews with retired players like and to preserve NFL history and mentor emerging talent. Jackson's charitable work post-retirement continues to emphasize youth development through football, building on his Steven Jackson Foundation established in 2004. The foundation supports educational programs and hosts events such as youth football camps to inspire underprivileged children and promote literacy and after-school activities tied to sports. His efforts include partnerships with organizations like Easter Seals, providing resources for children facing challenges, and international initiatives like building water wells in after scaling in 2018. Jackson's legacy endures as one of the NFL's most durable workhorse running backs, exemplified by his achievement as one of only six players in league history to rush for 1,000 yards in eight consecutive seasons from to 2012, despite playing on consistently underperforming teams. His physical, between-the-tackles running style—characterized by power, tenacity, and high-volume carries—has influenced evaluations of modern running backs, with comparisons drawn to players like for their ability to wear down defenses over long seasons. As the ' all-time leading rusher with 10,138 yards, Jackson's Hall of Fame candidacy underscores his impact, ranking him 19th all-time in career rushing yards among eligible players not yet inducted.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Steven Jackson was born the youngest of three children to parents and Brenda Jackson in , , where a stable family environment instilled strong that shaped his personal principles. His older sisters, including Rhonda, served as key role models, influencing his approach to family life through their intelligence and supportiveness. Jackson is married to Asia Jackson, with whom he has four children: Kingston, Kinnedi, Journey, and Jax. His eldest son, Skyler (from a previous relationship), has followed in his father's footsteps athletically; as of 2025, Skyler is a freshman running back at . The family maintains a high degree of privacy regarding personal relationships, rarely sharing details beyond occasional public acknowledgments of familial bonds, such as Jackson's Instagram posts celebrating anniversaries and his children's milestones. As of 2025, Jackson and his family reside in , embracing a low-profile lifestyle focused on privacy and quality time together away from the public eye.

Philanthropy and business ventures

Following his NFL retirement in 2015, Steven Jackson established himself as a dedicated to development and community support, particularly in underserved areas. In 2004, while still an active player with the , he founded the Steven Jackson Foundation, which focuses on enhancing and opportunities for children through programs, after-school initiatives, and the provision of new to schools. The foundation has distributed tens of thousands of dollars to organizations like Easter Seals, aiding children with disabilities and promoting inclusive community programs. During his tenure with the in the , Jackson actively engaged in team-sponsored outreach efforts, including a 2006 pledge to donate $1,000 to his foundation for every scored, which supported local and causes amid the team's challenging seasons. Jackson's charitable efforts extended internationally in 2018 when he scaled to raise awareness and funds for clean water access, resulting in the construction of water wells in underserved Tanzanian communities. Domestically, he has participated in Legends Community programs, mentoring young athletes and contributing to former players' welfare initiatives through events and grants. In 2022, Jackson established the Jackson Family Fund at —his —to bolster recruitment and support for underrepresented faculty, staff, and students, aligning with broader goals of . In parallel with his philanthropy, Jackson pursued entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging his post-NFL platform for investments in Nevada-based enterprises. He holds equity in the Original Barber School in , a training facility aimed at providing vocational skills to young adults in the community, and co-founded the OBS lifestyle brand, which offers apparel and accessories inspired by athletic discipline and . As NFL Legends Pacific West Coordinator, he advises on business opportunities for retired players, including startup equity stakes and developments in the region. These pursuits, combined with endorsement deals and career exceeding $52 million from his NFL contracts, have positioned Jackson as a multifaceted by 2025.

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