Jackson Named FWAA-Orange Bowl Courage Award Nominee

AMES, Iowa – Iowa State redshirt junior Daniel Jackson has overcome his fair share of obstacles to become a significant contributor for the Cyclones this season. On Wednesday, Jackson was named a nominee for the FWAA-Orange Bowl Courage Award.

Jackson's story goes back to his senior year of high school at Steele High School in Cibolo, Texas, when he was involved in a serious car accident. In the accident, Jackson suffered a fractured nasal cavity and was told he would never play football again.

But that didn't stop Jackson and a year later he was a member of the Cyclone football program. His freshman year started strong, pulling down five receptions in his first four games. But the season was derailed by a broken foot.

As a redshirt freshman in 2021, Jackson had four receptions, but his 2022 season saw him play in just three games with no receptions.

But 2023 has been his comeback season, playing in all 10 games and making 14 receptions for 235 yards and two touchdowns. His 16.8 yards per reception is second on the team.

Jackson and the Cyclones are 6-4 overall and in a four-way tie for second place in the Big 12 at 5-2 as they ready to host Texas in their home finale Saturday evening at 7 p.m. on FOX.