Former Tennessee cornerback Janzen Jackson has enrolled at McNeese State, it was announced last week.
Jackson will be eligible to play this season because he is transferring to a Division I-AA school, but he will not be available for McNeese's opener vs. Kansas next Saturday, coach Matt Viator said Friday.
Former Tennessee cornerback Janzen Jackson has enrolled at McNeese State. (AP Photo)
On Wednesday, Tennessee coach Derek Dooley announced that Jackson had been dismissed from the team, although no specific reason was given. Jackson left the team in February due to unspecified personal reasons, then returned to the program in July.
Multiple reports have indicated that Jackson failed multiple drug tests. Due to federal privacy laws, the school has not confirmed those reports.
“I would like to thank McNeese for giving me the opportunity to come back home (he's from Lake Charles, La., where McNeese is located) and continue my education and football career,” Jackson said in a statement released by McNeese confirming Jackson's transfer.
“I would also like to apologize to my family, friends and the University of Tennessee for the mistakes I have made. I realize how fortunate I am to get a second chance and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead.” Jackson added.
Viator said that his close ties to Jackson’s father, Western Kentucky defensive coordinator Lance Guidry, factored into the decision to give Jackson a chance.
“I’m hoping that it makes all the difference for Janzen,” Viator said. “There’s no question that we’re trying to help the young man. I think that he is sincere in wanting a second chance. Not only that but I think that he’s sincere in wanting to be a part of this program.”
Jackson was a second-team All-SEC selection in 2010 after recording 69 tackles and five interceptions for the Vols., it was announced last week.
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