The Wolfpacker: An Independent Magazine Covering NC State Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1547338
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 ■ 27 The 6-foot-3, 194-pound veteran, in turn, has become a key part of setting the edge on the perimeter for the Wolf- pack's running backs to move downfield a little more easily. But don't let that diminish the work he's done as a route runner, either. Jackson has hit his stride in the pass- ing game this fall. He entered the season with his sights set on becoming junior quarterback CJ Bailey's top option, and he achieved that goal through the first six games of the season. Not only has he topped his previous best for yards in a particular season, but his 6 touchdowns were more than he logged in his freshman and sophomore years combined. Even his 3-touchdown performance at Vanderbilt in Week 3 — which marked the first such performance by a Pack wideout against an FBS defense since Thayer Thomas did so at Syracuse in 2020 — topped either one of his first two seasons in Raleigh. From Miami transfer Chance Rob- inson's perspective, there isn't anyone more impressive in the wide receiver room than Jackson. Not only is he a quality pass catcher and run blocker, but his leadership as an assistant cap- tain is just as notable. "Keenan's special," Robinson said. "He can do it in the pass game and in the run game. Keenan gives full effort. He's a dude that takes control of the room, helps all the young guys and the new guys. "He's a great leader for us and he does wonderful things." Jackson holds everyone in his group to a high standard, using his work ethic as an example for the rest of the receivers to reach, Doeren said. So far, the Wolf- pack's receivers seem to have responded well to his leadership. After all, his ultimate goal is to help NC State win as many games as pos- sible. Impacting the offense however he can always will be his top priority. "I'm really just trying to do my job," Jackson said. "I'm just trying to do whatever this team asks me, whatever the coaches ask me and whatever my teammates need me to do. That's my mindset going into each week." ■ Jackson broke out with a 9-catch, 102-yard, 3-touchdown performance at Vanderbilt Sept. 19. PHOTO COURTESY NC STATE FOOTBALL " I don't care about personal numbers or accolades. I just want to know what I can do to help this offense, help this team, get better every week." Jackson