Dexter Jackson enters the 2026 season as Tennessee State’s assistant head coach, defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator. Jackson was promoted after serving as the Tigers’ safeties coach during his first season at TSU in 2025.
Under Jackson’s leadership, Tennessee State’s secondary finished the 2025 season with six interceptions, 38 pass breakups and nine fumble recoveries. Strong safety Kaiki Baker recorded 42 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups and two forced fumbles despite playing in only seven games. Free safety Brendan Hale collected 37 tackles and an interception in six appearances. Cornerback Byron Davis added 37 tackles, two interceptions and eight pass breakups, while Syncere Safeeullah recorded an interception, three pass breakups and two fumble recoveries.
Jackson brings championship experience to the Tennessee State staff following a 10-year NFL career. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft, and he became the team’s starting free safety in 2001.
Jackson helped anchor Tampa Bay’s championship defense in 2002, recording three interceptions during the regular season. The Buccaneers led the NFL in yards allowed, points allowed and interceptions before defeating the Oakland Raiders 48-21 in Super Bowl XXXVII. Jackson was named the game’s Most Valuable Player after intercepting two passes in the first half, becoming the first player in Super Bowl history to accomplish the feat. He was also only the second safety and third defensive back to earn Super Bowl MVP honors.
Jackson joined the Arizona Cardinals in 2003 and started all 16 games, producing a career-high six interceptions. He later returned to Tampa Bay before finishing his career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Jackson appeared in 118 regular-season games and recorded 17 interceptions during his NFL career.
A native of Quincy, Florida, Jackson played at Florida State from 1995 to 1998. He earned second-team All-ACC recognition as a junior and senior and completed his Seminoles career with 194 tackles, seven interceptions, 16 pass breakups and four blocked field goals.
Following his playing career, Jackson moved into coaching and player development. His work has included collegiate programs and community organizations such as the Tampa Housing Authority, where he focused on youth mentorship and leadership development.
