Ricky Jackson - A Member of The Pro Football Hall of Fame

Laynie Barrilleaux

Ricky Jackson was born and raised in Pahokee  Florida where he played football as a tight end and a linebacker. After highschool he attended the University of Pittsburg where he garnished numerous accomplishments including First Team All American and Sports Illustrated’s Player of the Year. In 1980 he was selected Captain of the East West Senior Bowl.

In 1981 he was drafted in the 2^nd round by New Orleans Saints head football coach Bum Phillips.  He immediately became a powerful and well known line backer for the Saints and was named to the All Rookie Team.  Over the next 13 years of his professional career as a New Orleans Saint he helped turn the organization from the brown bags to a highly recognizable NFL Team.  He was the leading Linebacker for the Saints famed “Dome Patrol” being classified as the best four man line backing corp by the NFL Network.

He finished his career with a Superbowl win with the San Francisco 49ers.  In 1997 he was inducted into the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame and had his number retired.  He finished his career with the most games and seasons played as a Saint, most sacks, and most fumbles recovered in a Saints career.  In 2007 he was selected to the All Century Florida High School Football team making him a pick of the top 33 players in the past 100 years.

In February 2010 he stood at the 50 yard line just before the New Orleans Saints took the field for what would be their first Superbowl win in franchise history and was announced as the New Orleans Saints first ever National Football League Hall of Fame Inductee.  What a treat to have Mr. Jackson as the Thibodaux Rotary guest speaker today.

Mr. Jackson admitted to the Rotarians that he was not so fond of California, but knew he needed a Superbowl win under his belt to solidify his career.  Today he lives in Metairie and devotes much of his time to working with middle school students.  He says that if you wait to talk to them until high school – it’s too late!  He said he did not have anyone explaining the importance of the “books” to him when he was in school, but today one cannot have a football career without first making the grade.  He is very grateful to Jim Finks and Tom Benson for helping and guiding him throughout his career.

Mr. Jackson says one reason for his success and ability to stay out of trouble was that he was focused.  From the time he was a boy he knew he wanted to play football and he knew he wanted to play for 15 years.  His high school football coach had the greatest impact on him.  He admits that the professional head football coaches have a minimal impact, but the positions coaches are what makes a difference.

Drew Brees is his favorite football player today.  He is quite impressed by Drew’s sincerity and giving back to the community.  Mr. Jackson also thinks the Saints have what it will take to win another Superbowl this year!  ~Laynie