The Seattle Seahawks are in a stage of mourning today after former backup quarterback Tarvaris Jackson passed away Sunday night. Jackson, 36, was involved in a car accident in Alabama. NFL Networks’s Ian Rappaport broke the news.
Tarvaris Jackson Passes Away in Car Crash
Early Life and College
Born and raised in Alabama, Tarvaris Jackson began his football career at Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery. He chose to attend the University of Arkansas. As a freshman, Jackson suffered a season ending injury. After two seasons on the bench, he transferred to Alabama State University.
Jackson had a prolific career with the Hornets. He led them to an 8-5 record in 2003 and a berth in the SWAC Championship game. In 2004, Jackson was the SWAC Championship MVP. He finished his college career at Alabama State having thrown for over 5,000 yards and 45 touchdowns. He was named a captain in 2005.
Professional Career
In 2006, Jackson participated in the Senior Bowl and impressed NFL scouts with his ability. Jackson was drafted in the second round by the Minnesota Vikings. He spent five seasons in Minnesota and started 20 games. Jackson had the best year of his career in 2011 where he started 14 games for the Seahawks and threw for 3,091 yards and 14 touchdowns. After leaving Seattle, Jackson spent one year with the Buffalo Bills but did not play in a single regular season game.
He then returned to Seattle as a backup to Russell Wilson from 2013-2015, while earning a Super Bowl ring in Super Bowl XLVIII after Seattle defeated the Denver Broncos 43-8. The Seahawks returned to the Super Bowl in 2014, but fell short to the New England Patriots, 28-24.
Last Word
Jackson transitioned into coaching in 2018, joining Alabama State as a quality control coach and quarterbacks coach. He moved to Tennessee State University in 2019.
Over 10 seasons, Tarvaris Jackson’s career he threw 39 passing touchdowns and 35 interceptions, and had a 59.6 completion percentage.
Thoughts and prayers are with the Vikings, Bills, Seahawks and the rest of the NFL community today.
Main Photo
