Kirby Smart discusses Kearis Jackson's growth, how his role is impacted by others

Georgia wideout Kearis Jackson finally has a complete season with the Bulldogs under his belt following consecutive years sidelined at some point with major injuries. With his final season of eligibility just weeks away, head coach Kirby Smart discussed what Jackson’s presence means inside the 2022 Georgia wide receivers room.

“Kearis is a leader. He represents our university the right way. He’s on part of so many committees and boards. And it seems like he’s been here forever,” Smart said following day one of training camp last week. “So I really appreciate what he’s done in that regard. He’s been a team player. He’s got to continue to improve.

“He knows the competition to create value is – you know, he’s also competing with the tight ends. Because when he’s on the field, one of them’s not. So for him, it’s very important that he knows his role, he understands his role, and he creates value in the way he plays, whether it’s special teams or at wide receiver.”

Jackson, who is entering his fifth season with the program, has been a big contributor on the field during his time in Athens. After redshirting as a freshman back in 2018, Jackson saw action in 11 games and started seven in 2019. His production was limited due to a hand injury he suffered in the season-opener that caused him to play with a cast, but still was able to suit up despite a thick cast on his hand and was used as a blocker in the run game.

The Georgia wideout had offseason knee surgery after the 2020 season but still managed to play every game during their national title campaign. In a room where receivers struggled to remain healthy all season last year, Jackson provided some sense of stability to the wide receiving corps.

Now, Jackson is tasked with replacing the presence of veterans like George Pickens and Jermaine Burton this season, but Smart expects him to rise to the challenge and become a leader of the offense and perform when his number is called.