Tom Jackson

NFL Studio Analyst

Tom Jackson, a standout linebacker for the Denver Broncos for 14 years, joined ESPN as the NFL studio analyst in 1987 for the launch of the network’s NFL game coverage. For 18 years, he has appeared on NFL Countdown and NFL PrimeTime -- ESPN's Sunday NFL pre-game and wrap-up shows – teaming with Chris Berman on both. NFL PrimeTime, the show created in 1987 with Berman in mind, is cable television’s highest-rated sports studio show. Over the years, Jackson has added Monday Night Countdown to his list of duties, and he has also contributed reports to SportsCenter and NFL Live and provided analysis on ESPN's coverage of the NFL Draft.

After an accomplished career, Jackson became the 14th Broncos player inducted into Denver's "Ring of Fame" on Oct. 4, 1992. He played in Super Bowls XII and XXI for the Broncos and held Denver team records for most seasons (14) and games played (191) for many years after his retirement until both marks were broken by Hall of fame quarterback John Elway. Jackson retired with 20 career interceptions, including three returned for touchdowns.

Jackson made three appearances in the Pro Bowl (1977-79). He was named by his teammates as Denver's defensive Most Valuable Player in 1974, 1976-77, and was voted Denver's Most Inspirational Player (1981-86), the only Bronco to have won the award at the time of his retirement.

Jackson's pre-ESPN broadcasting experience included co-host positions for both "Broncos Beat" -- a weekly show on KCNC-TV in Denver -- and a post-game show on KUSA-TV. He had also hosted a daily syndicated sports commentary radio show, "Behind the Line."

For his broadcasting work, Jackson was awarded the "best sports analyst" Cable Ace in 1996. In 1990, he was named the Walter Camp Football Foundation's "Alumnus of the Year." Jackson also wrote an autobiography, "Blitz."

A native of Cleveland, Jackson graduated from the University of Louisville in 1973 where he was two-time Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year.

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