Billy Napier awards scholarship to Kahleil Jackson: ‘He's earned it’
NASHVILLE — Kahleil Jackson caught a touchdown pass in Florida’s spring game, and there’s more where that came from. Gators coach Billy Napier awarded a full-time scholarship to the former walk-on receiver this offseason.
Multiple players mentioned Jackson as one of the team’s top wideouts during spring camp, although Napier has been impressed with what he’s seen from him since taking over the program.
“I would say from the jump, Kahleil’s been a guy from an ability standpoint,” Napier told Gators Online at SEC Media Days. “I’m a newcomer. I’m just evaluating what I see. He just really benefited from that clean slate approach. He’s got talent, and he’s earned it.”
Jackson was a preferred walk-on in Florida’s 2020 class and received more playing time last season under Napier. He appeared in six games and caught two passes for 43 yards, including a 23-yard reception against South Carolina.
Jackson is a third generation Florida football player. His father, Willie Jackson Jr., and uncle, Terry Jackson, played under Steve Spurrier. His grandfather, Willie Jackson Sr., was one of the first African-American scholarship football players at UF.
Jackson is converted receiver who played quarterback at Hawthorne High School. He finished his career with 4,214 passing yards and 66 touchdowns along with 11 touchdowns on the ground, rushing for over 100 yards in two games as a senior.
“Really unique when you start digging into how he ended up there, his recruitment story,” Napier said of Jackson. “I think he cares about the University of Florida. Obviously, there’s the legacy piece.
“But he’s a worker. He’s got good skill level. He’s 6-3, 220 pounds and I think he brings a competitive dimension to our team that can help us as a receiver and also as a special teams player.”
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Strong spring from Kahleil Jackson
Jackson was a breakout performer in the spring according to his teammates. Quarterback Jack Miller III named him as one of the receivers turning heads in camp.
“Obviously Ricky [Pearsall]. Kahleil Jackson has been balling this spring too,” Miller said. “Andy Jean, the freshman that just came in, he’s the real deal.”
Jackson found the end zone in the Orange & Blue Game, catching 10-yard touchdown pass from QB Graham Mertz to tie the score before the half.
“It was good to get Kahleil and go score that. It was a good end to the two-minute drill,” Mertz said.
Former Florida receiver Xzavier Henderson also included Jackson when listing the fastest players on the team.
“Kahleil Jackson, he’s up there too,” Henderson said. “In a 40, it’s either me, Aidan [Mizell] and probably Kahleil.”
