An undersized LB with a great motor, Tom Jackson played college football at Louisville from 1970-72.
He’d be a 4th round pick of the Denver Broncos in 1973 and form a key element of the team’s famed Orange Crush Defense.
Extremely durable, Tom played from 1973-1986 for the Broncos, appearing in two Super Bowls for the team, and 191 games.
In 1976, he had an incredible 7 interceptions, 4 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles from his OLB spot.
After his playing days ended, Jackson seamlessly transitioned to the studio where he worked alongside Chris Berman for ESPN- a role he held for 29 years.
ACCOLADES:
Pro Bowl 1977-79
Louisville Cardinals Ring of Honor
Second Team All-Pro 1978-79
All Pro 1977
Denver Broncos 50th Anniversary Team
Pro Football Hall of Fame 2016
NOTES:
Tom Jackson was not really known as a prolific signer so when he popped I made my move instead of paying inflated prices in the secondary EBay market. Tom Jackson was such a great LB, I thought he was a S. I loved watching him on ESPN Primetime and Countdown. He didn’t really give any love to the Oilers outside of Ernest Givins– “From Louiville!” – Tom’s signature line in the studio.
Bill had some great set needs, and since I had never written him before, I figured I’d go ahead and knock these cards out. His Pro Set 1989 definitely sticks out to me. It’s a unique shot of a lineman that perfectly encapsulates the action that Pro Set was known for in its early years.
Didn’t have much in the tank left for Jimmy, except really for this one set need out of Gameday 1992. Outside of that Spoodog- who you may recall from my in person adventures from a few years prior, was downsizing his collection, or just got so bored of the hobby he was not really into it anymore. Anyway, he gave me a bunch of unsigned cards and this Jags card of Jimmy was among them, so, inspired, I thought if I ever got another shot I’d send this one out too.
I got really lucky getting Jimmy on these cards. During the pandemic he popped up on Twitter and offered to sign for fans. This lasted all for… 3 months before he quit again.
Celebrating the game, the players, the cards, and the autographs for over 25 years.